Definition of healer

The word "healer" originated from the Old English word "hāl," which means "whole" or "uninjured." The word "hāl" eventually evolved into the Middle English word "hele" or "hale," which meant "to make whole" or "to cure." The Old Norse word "háligr" that meant "healthy" or "hale" also contributed to the development of the word "healer." In many ancient cultures, individuals who had the ability to heal were often revered as holy figures and were called "holy men" or "holy women." The use of the term "healer" to describe individuals who possess the ability to cure illnesses and promote physical, emotional, or spiritual health became widely recognized in the English language during the Middle Ages, and it continues to be used today in various therapeutic traditions including traditional medicine, alternative medicine, and religious healing.