Restorative: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about something that helps to bring back health, energy, or well-being.

• After a long week, a restorative sleep can do wonders
• The spa offers restorative treatments that help you relax

Used in contexts related to recovering from illness or injury, both physically and emotionally.

• The doctor recommends healing herbs for faster recovery
• Time is often considered the best healing medicine for emotional wounds

Refers to something that makes you feel younger, more energetic, or refreshed.

• A vacation by the beach can be incredibly rejuvenating
• She uses a rejuvenating face mask to keep her skin looking fresh

Often used in medical or correctional contexts to describe processes or treatments that help restore function or abilities.

• After his surgery, he went through a rehabilitative program to regain strength
• The prison has a rehabilitative approach to help inmates reintegrate into society

Used when referring to something that has a healing or renewing effect.

• Meditation has a restorative effect on the mind and body
• A spa day can be incredibly restorative for those feeling stressed

Used when referring to the act of returning something that was lost or stolen to its rightful owner, or restoring something to its original state.

• The thief was ordered to make restitution to his victims
• The museum sought the restitution of artifacts looted during the war

Used in situations where something of value is given to make up for a loss, damage, or inconvenience.

• Employees received compensation for working overtime
• The insurance company provided compensation for the damaged property

Typically used in legal or formal contexts to refer to making amends for wrongs or harm done, often through payment or other means.

• The country offered reparations to the victims of war crimes
• The company made reparations to the affected community