-
A person who is excessively concerned about their health, often to the point of being invalid or weak.
synonyms:hypochondriacsickly person
The term 'valetudinarian' originates from the Latin word 'valetudinarius', meaning 'sickly' or 'pertaining to health'. The root 'valetudo' means 'health', reflecting the word's focus on health and well-being.
This word is typically used in medical or psychological contexts, often referring to individuals who exhibit an exaggerated concern for their health.
While 'valetudinarian' is not commonly used in everyday conversation, it can appear in medical literature or discussions about health psychology.
Despite his age, Mr. Thompson was not a valetudinarian; he enjoyed hiking and remained active in his community.
The valetudinarian often visited the doctor, convinced that every minor ailment could be a sign of a serious illness.
Her friends joked that she was a valetudinarian, always bringing her own snacks and supplements to every gathering.
The word 'valetudinarian' has a fascinating history rooted in Latin, highlighting our long-standing preoccupation with health. Often used to describe someone who may worry excessively about their well-being, it captures a unique aspect of human nature. Interestingly, while it may not be a term you hear every day, it paints a vivid picture of the delicate balance between health awareness and health anxiety. So, next time you encounter someone obsessively checking their health stats, you might just think of them as a valetudinarian!