Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Convalescence \Con`va*les"cence\, Convalescency
\Con`va*les"cen*cy\, n. [L. convalescentia: cf. F.
   convalescence.]
   The recovery of heath and strength after disease; the state
   of a body renewing its vigor after sickness or weakness; the
   time between the subsidence of a disease and complete
   restoration to health.

Source : WordNet®

convalescence
     n : gradual healing (through rest) after sickness or injury
         [syn: {recuperation}, {recovery}]