con·va·les·cent I. \|känvə|lesənt\adjective Etymology: Latin convalescent-, convalescens, present participle of convalescere 1.: recovering from sickness or debility : partially restored to health or strength < convalescent children nearly ready to leave the hospital > 2.: of, for, or relating to convalescence or convalescents < a patient in a convalescent ward > • con·va·les·cent·lyadverb II. noun (-s) : one recovering from sickness