English Reference
adjective

healthy

adj.
US /ˈhɛɫθi/ UK /hˈɛlθi/ healthy

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    having good health and not being sick or injured.

    possessing or enjoying good physical or mental health; free from disease or infirmity.

    Simple

    The doctor said that my heart is very healthy for my age.

    In context

    After months of physical therapy and a disciplined diet, the athlete returned to the field looking remarkably healthy and energetic.

  2. 02 A1 Beginner

    something that helps you stay well, like good food or exercise.

    conducive to or promoting good health; beneficial to physical well-being.

    Simple

    Eating a healthy breakfast gives you energy for the whole day.

    In context

    Public health experts advocate for urban planning that encourages healthy habits, such as walking to work and accessing green spaces.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    looking like you are in good health.

    evincing or indicative of good health, often through physical appearance.

    Simple

    The baby has healthy pink cheeks and a loud cry.

    In context

    The plants displayed a healthy green glow after being moved to a sunnier spot in the garden.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    a large or successful amount of something, like money or respect.

    significant in size, amount, or degree; showing strength or success in a non-medical context.

    Simple

    The company reported a healthy profit at the end of the year.

    In context

    Despite the economic downturn, the firm maintained a healthy respect for its competitors while securing a substantial market share.

Don't confuse

healthy vs healthful — Healthy describes the state of a living being, while healthful describes something that improves or maintains that state.

Usage healthy adults · healthy aging · healthy diet


From health + -y.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Very common
Updated