heal
This word carries a sense of restoration and returning to a state of wholeness. It is distinct from cure, which typically refers to the eradication of a disease or the removal of symptoms. Healing describes the biological or emotional process of repair, focusing on the recovery of strength and integrity rather than just the absence of illness.
In emotional contexts, it suggests a slow, organic process of peace and acceptance. It is frequently used in spiritual or holistic settings to describe a deep, transformative recovery that addresses the spirit or mind as much as the physical body.
Meanings
To cause a wound or injury to become sound or healthy again.
The doctor worked to heal the deep gash in his arm.
To become sound or healthy again after an injury.
The broken bone took several months to heal completely.
To make a person psychologically or emotionally whole again.
Time and therapy helped her heal from the trauma of the accident.
Phrasal Verbs
heal up
to recover completely from an injury or wound
The cut on my knee is finally starting to heal up.
heal over
to be covered by new skin or a scar as a wound closes
The surgical incision began to heal over after a few weeks.