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

Outside of their life of crime, the first look gives a glimpse at the range of leisure activities available to the player — including shooting basketball, diving in the ocean, weightlifting, jet skiing and dancing at a strip club. — Angela Yang, NBC news, 27 Aug. 2026

The walls are decorated with memories, paintings and artwork, like needlework from his wife that depicts cats in their leisure time. — Joseph Hernandez, Kansas City Star, 25 Aug. 2026

Our research revealed that there is a vibrant ecosystem of people learning about religion in their leisure time. — Laura Yares, The Conversation, 24 Aug. 2026

The espresso martini and French 75 cocktails reimagine the traditional in-room beverage experiences as they are displayed in every category’s Honor Bar, which allows guests to discover them at their leisure. — Jillian Dara, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 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