hydrotherapy

noun

hy·​dro·​ther·​a·​py ˌhī-drə-ˈther-ə-pē 

: the therapeutic use of water (as in a whirlpool bath) compare hydropathy

Examples of hydrotherapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The spa itself sprawls 64,000 square feet and has a cluster of treatment pavilions, fitness centers, and outdoor pools where hydrotherapy sessions are performed (my partner turned to jelly after a particularly effective water shiatsu session). —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 Mar. 2026

Holistic wellness touches are now front and center, with many resorts offering post-race cryotherapy, nutrition counseling, hydrotherapy circuits, and spa rituals focused on muscle recovery. —Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 5 Mar. 2026

Whirlpool or jetted tubs for hydrotherapy are also normally larger to accommodate bubbling and pressure. —Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Mar. 2026

Parents can sneak away to the adults-only section with a pool and swim-up bars, or retreat to the spa fitted with a Turkish bath, hydrotherapies and Swiss showers. —Miami Herald, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hydrotherapy

• brachytherapy
• chemotherapy
• cryotherapy
• hypnotherapy
• monotherapy
• phototherapy
• psychotherapy
• sclerotherapy
• immunotherapy
• pharmacotherapy
• physiotherapy
• radiotherapy

Medical Definition

hydrotherapy

noun

hy·​dro·​ther·​a·​py -ˈther-ə-pē 

plural hydrotherapies

: the therapeutic use of water (as in a whirlpool bath) compare hydropathy