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’s a host of activities offered on-site, from fitness classes and activities for kids and families to tours of the surrounding olive oil farms and live music or DJs. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Aug. 2026 Plans were announced for an adaptive re-use of the structure — as a fitness center, cafe and conference facility — but no on-site work appears to be happening yet. — Sal Pizarro, Mercury News, 20 Aug. 2026 Everything here has been elevated, from the top-tier Italian restaurant Luma to the new spa and Grand Lawn with complimentary fitness classes and family activities. — Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 20 Aug. 2026 Now the unique collection of eateries, craft brewers, boutiques and service providers — from fitness classes to stylists — is marking its anniversary with Stanley10. — John Wenzel, Denver Post, 20 Aug. 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 21 Aug. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on fitness

Nglish: Translation of fitness for Spanish Speakers

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