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

Most physically active adults with reasonable fitness goals may not need to stretch at all. —Emma Yasinski, TIME, 11 Apr. 2024

Community amenities of the complex include a pool and spa, outdoor yoga lawn, an outdoor entertainment center with grilling stations, a fitness center and dog park. —Alexandra Hardle, The Arizona Republic, 11 Apr. 2024

Amenities will include a community clubhouse with a catering kitchenette and dining areas, lounging and gaming areas, and a fitness center, according to the Riverview6 web page. —James A. Jones Jr., Miami Herald, 10 Apr. 2024

While working as a delivery driver for Pizza Hut, Francis and his friend Lewis Morgan launched a website selling fitness supplements for a small profit, called Gymshark. —Orianna Rosa Royle, Fortune Europe, 10 Apr. 2024

For an invigorating fitness session, classes are bookable in the brand-new gym, as are activities that take you out into the local Belgravia neighborhood. —Stacey Wreathall, Travel + Leisure, 6 Apr. 2024

This collaboration with Alo makes sense since music and fitness go hand-in-hand. —Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 3 Apr. 2024

Plans call for 8,000 square feet of ground floor retail and amenities including a pool, spa deck, multiple courtyards, barbecue stations, a third-floor deck and fitness center, according to a letter submitted to the city. —Nick Rosenberger, Idaho Statesman, 2 Apr. 2024

Farmer’s walk Hold a dumbbell of appropriate weight for your fitness level in each hand. —Dana Santas, CNN, 1 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing fitness

• physical fitness

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