Definition

Unable to leave bed due to illness or disability.

Example

After the surgery, she was bedfast for several weeks.

Conversation

I heard that Sam has been bedfast for a couple of weeks now.

Yeah, it's been tough for him to get around lately.

I really hope he recovers soon and isn't bedfast for much longer.

Same here! I miss hanging out with him.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bedfast is formed from "bed" (from Old English "bed", meaning a place for sleeping) and "fast" (from Old English "fæst", meaning firmly or fixed). The word "bedfast" describes someone who is confined to bed, unable to get up, thus being firmly in bed.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'fixed' ('fast') to their 'bed' — that's why bedfast means unable to leave the bed.

Visually Confused Words