rehab

noun

re·​hab ˈrē-ˌhab How to pronounce rehab (audio)
often attributive
1
: the action or process of rehabilitating : rehabilitation
especially : a program for rehabilitating especially drug or alcohol abusers
2
: a rehabilitated building or dwelling
rehab verb
rehabber noun

Examples of rehab in a Sentence

The rehab for his leg injury is going well. the accident victim had to undergo months of rehab before she could walk again
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Bieber can finish his rehab and then try to rebuild his value in the pitcher-friendly environment of the only organization he’s known, with the option to stay with the Guardians for 2026 or re-enter the free-agent market — healthy and still just 30 years old — if his comeback goes especially well. Tim Britton, The Athletic, 21 Feb. 2025 There is also footage of an emotional interview with Elton John from the early 1990s, when the musician is just coming out of rehab after many years of addiction. Brian Steinberg, Variety, 19 Feb. 2025 Second baseman Nico Hoerner hopes to play in Tokyo, but his rehab from right flexor tendon surgery could be problematic. Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 17 Feb. 2025 One possible silver lining: Stanton has gone on short rehab assignments when he’s gotten hurt in the past. Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 17 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rehab

Word History

Etymology

short for rehabilitation or rehabilitate

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rehab was in 1941

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Cite this Entry

“Rehab.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rehab. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

Medical Definition

rehab

noun
re·​hab ˈrē-ˌhab How to pronounce rehab (audio)
often attributive
: rehabilitation
especially : a program for rehabilitating especially drug or alcohol abusers
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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