hobby

1 of 2

noun (1)

hob·​by ˈhä-bē 

plural hobbies

: a small Old World falcon (Falco subbuteo) that is dark blue above and white below with dark streaking on the breast

hobby

2 of 2

noun (2)

plural hobbies

: a pursuit outside one's regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation

Writing is just a hobby of his.

Her hobbies include gardening and bird-watching.

hobbyist

ˈhä-bē-ist 

noun

Synonyms of hobby

Noun (2)

• pursuit
• sport
• avocation
• recreation
• amusement

Examples of hobby in a Sentence

Noun (2)

his ranch is just a weekend hobby—he makes his real money as an investment banker

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Brett Wooderson, a longtime customer, agreed that the appreciation for beer and brewing as a hobby stands out. —Janice Phelan, Kansas City Star, 8 Jan. 2026

There are even lessons for beginners who may want to start a new hobby over the winter. —The Denver Post, Denver Post, 7 Jan. 2026

Whether your goals involve increasing our hydration levels, taking on a new hobby, or even decluttering our wardrobe, these shifts (big or small) can transform our daily lives. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 7 Jan. 2026

His favorite hobbies include bodysurfing the Jersey Shore and making the under-33 club at the Flamingo Miniature Golf Course. —Arkansas Online, 7 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Middle English hoby, from Anglo-French hobel, hobé

Noun (2)

short for hobbyhorse

First Known Use

Noun (1)

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1816, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hobby

• bobbie
• bobby
• knobby
• lobby
• nabi
• nobby
• panjabi
• punjabi
• wahhabi

Kids Definition

hobby

noun

hob·​by

ˈhäb-ē

plural hobbies

: an interest or activity to which a person devotes time for pleasure

hobbyist

-ē-əst

noun