convalescence (noun) - a healing phase after an illness or surgery during which time someone rests and regains strength; recovery or recuperation
BREAKDOWN: CON- (with) + VAL- (strong) + -ESCENCE (growing or becoming)
convalesce means to recover health and strength gradually after sickness; to recuperate
convalescent means of, pertaining to, or engaged in recovery
a convalescent is someone recovering after an illness or operation
See also: ambivalent, prevail, valiant
“Gratitude pours forth continually, as if the unexpected had just happened—the gratitude of a convalescent—for convalescence was unexpected…. The rejoicing of strength that is returning, of a reawakened faith in a tomorrow and the day after tomorrow, of a sudden sense and anticipation of a future, of impending adventures, of seas that are open again.” —Friedrich Nietzsche
