Synonyms of rehabilitate

rehabilitate 1 of 2

verb

ˌrē-ə-ˈbi-lə-ˌtāt 

1

as in to redeem

to make better in behavior or character

an organization that rehabilitates criminals so they can reenter society

Synonyms & Similar Words

• redeem
• reclaim
• regenerate
• improve
• reform
• restore
• habilitate
• reeducate
• refine
• amend
• purify
• cleanse

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• subvert
• degrade
• corrupt
• poison
• demoralize
• demean
• lower
• prostitute
• pervert
• debauch
• warp
• abase
• profane
• deprave
• canker

2

as in to heal

to restore to a healthy condition

underwent physical therapy to help rehabilitate her broken elbow

Synonyms & Similar Words

• heal
• cure
• fix
• treat
• revive
• repair
• rehab
• relieve
• set up
• mend
• alleviate
• revitalize
• attend (to)
• minister (to)
• renew
• care (for)
• fortify
• rejuvenate
• medicate
• resuscitate
• remedy
• nurse
• physic
• doctor

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• injure
• impair
• hurt
• harm
• damage
• wound
• cripple
• mutilate
• disable
• maim
• weaken
• afflict
• lacerate
• waste
• mangle
• lame
• sicken
• ail
• lay up
• sap
• debilitate
• enervate
• enfeeble

rehabilitation

2 of 2

noun

ˌrē-ə-ˌbi-lə-ˈtā-shən 

as in recovery

the process or period of gradually regaining one's health and strength

his rehabilitation from the flu was brief, and he was up and working again within a few days

Synonyms & Similar Words

• recovery
• rehab
• healing
• recuperation
• convalescence
• comeback
• mending
• revival
• resuscitation
• survival
• rally
• snapback

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• deterioration
• failing
• decline
• degeneration
• worsening
• sinking
• weakening
• fading
• regression
• relapse
• languishing
• wasting (away)
• wilting
• withering

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of rehabilitate

Verb

After taking the 1975 season off to recover and rehabilitate, John came back with a strong 1976 season before winning at least 20 games in three of the next four campaigns. — David K. Li, NBC news, 10 Aug. 2026

Bedient gave him some frank advice on how to rehabilitate his sperm. — Sarah Elizabeth Richards, Scientific American, 10 Aug. 2026

Noun

The 12-article draft legislation outlines the procedures for the disarmament of the group — which still retains the bulk of its weapons — and the rehabilitation of thousands of PKK members. — ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026

Mexico has exceeded its 2026 funding commitment, with six rehabilitation projects now in construction or procurement. — Mark Sanchez, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Aug. 2026