I. ˈspä, ˈspȯ, ˈspȧ noun
( -s )
Etymology: from Spa, watering place in eastern Belgium
1.
a. : a mineral spring resorted to for cures
b. : a locality containing a mineral spring resorted to for cures
the town used to be quite the fashionable spa — Richard Joseph
c. : a resort hotel situated at a mineral spring
d. : any especially fashionable resort locality or hotel
ski instructor at a snow- spa — John Woodburn
2. New England : soda fountain
II. noun
1. : a commercial establishment (as a resort) providing facilities devoted especially to health, fitness, weight loss, beauty, and relaxation
2. : a hot tub with a whirlpool device
III. ˈspä, ˈspȯ, ˈspȧ adjective
Etymology: spa , noun
of food : designed to please a gourmet but low in fats, calories, and salt
spa cuisine