Entry Word: relax

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to get rid of nervous tension or anxiety <she took deep breaths to relax before going on stage>

Synonyms unwind

Related Words loosen (up), unbend; repose, rest; alleviate, comfort, ease, relieve; calm, compose, cool, quiet, settle

Antonyms tense (up)

2 to make less taut <relax the rope a bit so I can pick up the slack and tie this knot> — see slacken
3 to refrain from labor or exertion <I just want to kick back and relax after mowing that huge lawn> — see rest 1