On the mend

Meaning

The idiom "on the mend" means that someone or something is recovering from a disease, injury, or illness. It suggests that the person or thing is improving and getting better. The figurative meaning of this idiom is to imply that someone or something has gone through a difficult time but is now in a better state.

Usage

• My grandfather is on the mend after his heart surgery. He's feeling much better now and can walk around without any pain.
• The company's sales have been declining for months, but with their new marketing strategy, they are finally starting to see results. They are truly on the mend.
• After years of struggling with addiction, my friend is finally on the mend. He's been clean for six months now and has a newfound sense of purpose.
• The city was hit hard by the pandemic, but thanks to the efforts of the local healthcare workers, we are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The community is truly coming together on the mend.
• After a long day at work, I feel like I'm on the mend. I can finally relax and unwind without any stress or worries.

Roots and History

The idiom "on the mend" has its roots in medical terminology. In medieval times, when people were more familiar with herbal remedies, they would use a plant called mends to treat injuries and illnesses. The term "mend" itself comes from the Old English word "mændan," which means to heal or make well. Over time, the idiom "on the mend" has taken on a broader meaning and is used to describe any type of recovery or improvement.

Synonyms in English

• On the road to recovery
• Mending
• Healing
• Recuperating
• recovering

Synonyms in other languages

• En recupération (French) - means "in recovery"
• Wiedergenommen (German) - means "recovered" or "regained"
• Riabilitato/a (Italian) - means "rehabilitated" or "revitalized"
• Исцеливаемый (Russian) - means "curable" or "restorable"
• 治療中 (Japanese) - means "in treatment"

Similar Idioms

• bosom friend

• Dutch uncle

• on/to hand