Daily Constitutional: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
July 31, 2023

The phrase "daily constitutional" implies a routine walk for health and well-being. The term highlights the idea of participating in regular physical activity, like a walk, to enhance one's health. The "daily constitutional" is a staple of one's daily regimen, promoting a healthier lifestyle. This phrase is more commonly found in British English and tends to be associated with an older demographic who takes regular walks as part of their everyday routine.

In short:

  • "Daily constitutional" is a term for a regular walk for health.
  • The phrase stresses the significance of routine physical activity for well-being.

What Does "Daily Constitutional" Mean?

"Daily constitutional" refers to regular walking or mild exercise taken for the sake of health. If someone engages in their "daily constitutional," it means they regularly incorporate a walk or light exercise into their daily schedule, typically for health benefits and overall wellness.

Let's delve deeper into its primary meanings and usage:

  • The phrase "daily constitutional" refers to the habit of taking a regular walk, often daily, for maintaining or improving health.
  • It emphasizes the importance of regular physical activity, particularly walking, in leading a healthy lifestyle.
  • "Daily constitutional" can be used to describe a person's commitment to regular exercise or physical activity.
    • For example, a senior might incorporate a morning walk into their daily routine as their "daily constitutional."
  • Terms similar to "daily constitutional" include "regular walk," "daily walk," or "routine exercise."

Where Does "Daily Constitutional" Come From?

The term "daily constitutional" may have started in the UK. "Constitutional" in this context relates to a person's physical health. This phrase hints at the idea that regular walks are good for you and a must for keeping fit and healthy. It is considered to be dated or old-fashioned in American English. It is also more common among older people than younger people.

Historical Example

"It was on this road that we, taking our daily constitutional under the charge of our nurse, used to meet Green. When his cart passed us we knew he was going to call at my uncle's, and we looked forward to fried soles for dinner."

- "Green's Boy," Once a Week, 1870

10 Examples of "Daily Constitutional" in Sentences

To offer a more comprehensive understanding of how to use this phrase, let's take a look at some examples from various scenarios:

  • Regardless of the weather, he insists on his daily constitutional to maintain his health.
  • He credits his daily constitutional for keeping him in the pink of health.
  • Despite the chill in the air, she kept up her daily constitutional even in the fall.
  • I hope this email finds you well and that you are continuing your daily constitutional to keep fit.
  • Despite his hectic work schedule, he manages to fit in a daily constitutional to help him relax.
  • Taking a daily constitutional has been a part of his routine since his doctor recommended it for better health.
  • Apropos of nothing, he mentioned how his daily constitutional helps him generate fresh ideas for his writing.
  • The dynamic duo takes their daily constitutional together, using it as an opportunity to talk and catch up.
  • To break the ice at the new job, he suggested to his colleagues that they join him on his daily constitutional.
  • He enjoys his daily constitutional in the evening when the weather is cooler and the streets are quieter.

Examples of "Daily Constitutional" in Literature and Media

The phrase appears less frequently in pop culture and media, often used to depict characters who engage in routine walks for health and wellness.

Let's examine a few examples:

  • The phrase is used in an episode of the TV show "Frasier" titled "And the Dish Ran Away with the Spoon: Part 2" (2000). A character says, "We've just finished our daily constitutional, with young Edward here dropping a few amendments along the way. So what's on the docket for tonight, then?"
  • In the movie "Ida" (2013), a character is described as taking his "daily constitutional" in a news article.
  • The phrase also appears in a news article about the movie "Won't You Be My Neighbor?" (2018). The article mentions a character who takes his "daily constitutional."
  • In a news article about the movie "The Biggest Little Farm" (2018), the author uses the phrase to describe a character's routine.

Other Ways to Say "Daily Constitutional"

There are several other expressions that can be used to convey a similar meaning to "daily constitutional."

Here are a few:

  • Daily walk
  • Regular stroll
  • Routine saunter
  • Daily exercise
  • Morning walk
  • Routine physical activity
  • Regular exercise
  • Daily step count
  • Health walk
  • Fitness routine

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Daily Constitutional":

  • What does "daily constitutional" mean?

"Daily constitutional" refers to a regular walk or exercise, typically undertaken for health benefits. It's a routine activity, usually done daily, that contributes to one's physical fitness and well-being.

  • How can I use "daily constitutional" in a sentence?

You can use "daily constitutional" in a sentence to indicate a regular, typically daily, walk or exercise. For instance, "If it weren't for his daily constitutional, he might not have noticed the lost kitten in the park."

  • Where does the phrase "daily constitutional" originate from?

The term "daily constitutional" originates from 19th-century Britain, where "constitutional" was used to mean something beneficial to one's constitution, or health. Over time, it came to specifically denote a regular walk for the purpose of maintaining health.

  • Is a "daily constitutional" always a walk?

While traditionally associated with walking, a "daily constitutional" can include any routine exercise that contributes to one's health. The key is regularity and consistency in the activity.

  • Can "daily constitutional" be used in modern times?

Yes, "daily constitutional" can still be used in modern times, although it's considered a somewhat old-fashioned term. It emphasizes the idea of making regular physical activity a part of one's daily routine for maintaining health.

  • Does a "daily constitutional" have to occur at a specific time?

No, a "daily constitutional" does not have to occur at a specific time. It simply refers to an exercise routine that happens consistently, often daily. It could be in the morning, afternoon, or evening depending on one's preference and schedule.

  • Can I use it in a professional context?

While "daily constitutional" primarily relates to personal health habits, it might appear in professional contexts when discussing work-life balance, employee wellness programs, or health recommendations.

  • Does "daily constitutional" refer only to outdoor exercise?

Not necessarily. While the term often brings to mind outdoor walks, a "daily constitutional" can be any routine physical activity, whether indoors or outdoors, that's aimed at maintaining health.

  • Is a "daily constitutional" the same as a workout?

A "daily constitutional" can be part of a workout routine, but it's typically seen as a less strenuous form of exercise. The emphasis is more on consistency and regularity rather than intensity.

  • Does "daily constitutional" imply a certain length or duration?

No, "daily constitutional" does not specify a certain length or duration. It could be a short walk around the block or a longer activity depending on the individual's routine and fitness goals.

Final Thoughts About "Daily Constitutional"

"Daily constitutional" broadly refers to a regular activity, typically a walk or light exercise, taken to maintain one's health. The term reminds us of the importance of regular physical activity in our daily routine. This phrase emphasizes not just the action but also the consistency of the action, pointing to the benefits of daily commitment to our health.

Here's a quick recap:

  • "Daily constitutional" underlines the significance of regular, usually daily, physical activity for health and well-being.
  • It doesn't necessarily specify a time or duration, allowing for flexibility based on one's schedule and preferences.
  • While the term is somewhat old-fashioned, it's still used in modern times to talk about routine exercises or health habits.

In our often sedentary lives, the idea of a "daily constitutional" can serve as a reminder of the importance of integrating physical activity into our routine for a healthier lifestyle. Even a simple, consistent walk can significantly affect our physical well-being.

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