fitness

noun

fit·​ness ˈfit-nəs 

1

: the quality or state of being fit

2

: the capacity of an organism to survive and transmit its genotype to reproductive offspring as compared to competing organisms

also : the contribution of an allele or genotype to the gene pool of subsequent generations as compared to that of other alleles or genotypes

Synonyms

• health
• healthiness
• heartiness
• robustness
• sap
• soundness
• verdure
• wellness
• wholeness
• wholesomeness

Examples of fitness in a Sentence

a gymnastics program promoting fitness and agility in school-aged children

I have to question the fitness of wearing a bright red dress to a funeral.

Recent Examples on the Web

Vance’s family used her fitness Instagram page to deliver the news of her death. —Scott Thompson, Fox News, 6 Mar. 2025

No experience is necessary and all fitness levels are welcome. —Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 5 Mar. 2025

For example, a local fitness coach who genuinely loves your yoga gear can have a far greater impact than a celebrity endorsement. —Sabine Leveiller, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025

There are some exceptions for being in a remote global location and for some non-physical roles to being subject to the annual fitness certification. —Brendan Coffey, Sportico.com, 1 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing fitness

• physical fitness

Rhymes for fitness

• witness
• eyewitness
• unfitness

Medical Definition

fitness

noun

fit·​ness ˈfit-nəs 

: the capacity of an organism to survive and transmit its genotype to reproductively fertile offspring as compared to competing organisms

also : the contribution of an allele or genotype to the gene pool of subsequent generations as compared to that of other alleles or genotypes