recuperate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɪˈkuːpəreɪt/
KK: /rɪˈkuːpəreɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To get better after being sick or tired; to regain strength or health.
Example
After a week of rest, she was able to recuperate from her illness and return to work.
Tense Forms
Past: recuperated
Past Participle: recuperated
Conversation
I need to take a break to recuperate from all this stress.
That sounds like a good idea; you’ve been working too hard.
Yeah, I just want to feel more energized and ready to go again.
Definitely! A little time off will help you recuperate quickly.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
recover
heal
regain
Antonyms
deteriorate
decline
worsen
transitive verb
Definition
To recover health or strength after an illness or injury.
Example
After a long illness, it took her several weeks to recuperate fully.
Tense Forms
Past: recuperated
Past Participle: recuperated
Conversation
How's your recovery going after the surgery?
It's been a bit slow, but I'm starting to recuperate now.
That's great to hear! What are you doing to help yourself recuperate?
Root Explanation
Recuperate → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "cuperare" (from Latin "cuperare", meaning to take or seize). The word means to take back or regain health or strength after an illness or injury.
Memory Tip
Think of 'taking back' ('cuperare') your health 'again' ('re-') — that's what recuperate means.
Visually Confused Words
unrecuperated
reoperate
recrate
renumerate
remunerate
preoperate
precuneate