leisure

noun

lei·​sure ˈlē-zhər  ˈle- 

ˈlā-

1

: freedom provided by the cessation of activities

especially : time free from work or duties

Increase of leisure, diminution of hustle are the ends to be sought …

—Bertrand Russell

2

: ease, leisureliness

leisure adjective

see also:

at leisure

Synonyms of leisure

• relaxation
• rest
• resting

Examples of leisure in a Sentence

I don't have much time for leisure.

upon retiring, the elderly couple looked forward to a life of well-deserved leisure

Recent Examples on the Web

Four or five modern hotel projects are currently in planning or development and there is scope for additional investment in high-end accommodation, leisure activities and services. — Panorama Media Ltd, Miami Herald, 9 Oct. 2026

Affordability is top of mind for most American families, especially in California with its higher cost of living, which means leisure spending might not be a priority. — Kiara Adams, Sacbee.com, 9 Oct. 2026

This has changed our perspective on leisure, and some could begin to view hobbies as a way to improve productivity. — Deeya Sonalkar, TheWeek, 8 Oct. 2026

So long as consumers continue to spend on experiences, such as travel and leisure, the stock market can continue to hang on as well. — Sarah Min, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English leiser, from Anglo-French leisir, from leisir to be permitted, from Latin licēre — see license entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing leisure

• a lady/man/gentleman of leisure
• a life of leisure
• at leisure
• at one's leisure
• leisure class
• leisure suit

Rhymes for leisure

• measure
• pleasure
• treasure
• countermeasure
• displeasure

Kids Definition

leisure

noun

lei·​sure ˈlēzh-ər  ˈlezh- 

ˈlāzh-

1

: freedom from work or duties

2

: ease entry 1 sense 1

3

: time at one's command : convenience

has the leisure to pursue a hobby

leisure adjective