rehab

noun

re·​hab ˈrē-ˌhab 

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

ˈrē-ˌha-bər 

noun

Synonyms

• comeback
• convalescence
• healing
• mending
• rally
• recovery
• recuperation
• rehabilitation
• snapback

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

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

Word History

Etymology

short for rehabilitation or rehabilitate

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

rehab

noun

re·​hab ˈrē-ˌhab 

often attributive

: rehabilitation

especially : a program for rehabilitating especially drug or alcohol abusers