Definition of hale

The origin of the word "hale" can be traced back to the Old English word "hæl," which meant "whole" or "sound." It derived from the Germanic root "hailaz" or "hali-, which referred to health and wholeness. In Old English, "hæl" was commonly used in compound words, such as "hælgrīef" (healthy) and "hælfest" (hale and hearty), to indicate a state of good health and stability. These words and their derivatives, such as "hale" in modern English, preserve the original meaning of "whole" or "uninjured," particularly in reference to physical health. In addition to its meaning in regard to physical health, "hale" has also been used in a figurative sense to describe emotional or mental soundness. This usage can be traced back to the Old English word "hæl," as well. In modern English, "hale" has retained its original meaning, but it is now mainly used in a figurative context to indicate a stable and wholehearted state of being, rather than a simple state of health. Examples of such usage include phrases like "hale and hearty" or "hale and hauty" (meaning handsome or attractive), which emphasize the idea of completeness and wholeness.