fitness

noun

fit·​ness ˈfit-nəs How to pronounce fitness (audio)
Synonyms of fitnessnext
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 of fitness

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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.
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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.
There is no wellness experience too niche for the center which offers a hair salon, nail bar, yoga studio, fitness room and Pilates classes with the hip boutique studio The Beat, opening onto a panoramic terrace. — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 25 Oct. 2026 The Nevada Independent reports that Lombardo’s campaign has used those issues to question Ford’s fitness, while Ford says the clemency matter followed procedure and disputes the criticism. — Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2026 Partridge, who once taught fitness classes in Boston, debuted the character on social media last year, which boosted his following beyond Barry’s and SoulCycle devotees. — Andrew Zucker, HollywoodReporter, 24 Oct. 2026 According to its governing body, the International Nordic Walking Federation (INWA), which was founded in 2000, Nordic walking is now practised in over 40 countries for health, fitness, recreation, social connection, and competitive sport. — Lola Akinmade, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fitness

Word History

First Known Use

1574, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fitness was in 1574

Phrases Containing fitness

Rhymes for fitness

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Browse Nearby Words

fitment
fitness
fit of laughter
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Cite this Entry

“Fitness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fitness. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

fitness

noun
fit·​ness ˈfit-nəs How to pronounce fitness (audio)
: 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
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