English Reference

Word

wellness

Phoneticswell·ness, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈwɛɫnəs/

UK/wˈɛlnəs/

Definitions

01state of health

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the state of being healthy and happy in your body and mind.

n. the condition of being in good physical and mental health, often used to describe a holistic state of balance.

“The company offers a program to improve the wellness of its employees.”

“The retreat focuses on spiritual wellness, encouraging guests to disconnect from technology and reconnect with their inner thoughts.”

Synonyms

well-beinghealthfitness

Antonyms

02healthy lifestyle industry

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the activities and products people use to stay healthy, like exercise, good food, and relaxation.

n. the active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life; often refers to the commercial industry surrounding health.

“She spent a lot of money on wellness products like vitamins and yoga mats.”

“The wellness industry has seen massive growth as consumers increasingly prioritise preventative healthcare over reactive medical treatments.”

Synonyms

self-carelifestyle

Real-World Examples

“Wellness has become a bit of a buzzword - and one that often comes with a hefty price tag.”
BBC News 21 Aug 2026
“For example, they might work together on health and wellness goals, such as public safety or physical activity.”
The Conversation 23 Jul 2026

Etymology

From Middle English welnes, welenes. By surface analysis, well + -ness.

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

Word family

NOUN

wellness(B2)

ADVERB

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference