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

Phrases

at leisure or at one's leisure

: in one's leisure time : at one's convenience

read the book at her 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

While affordability may be top of mind, retirees often weigh other elements such as weather, access to quality health care and leisure opportunities. —Diana Leyva, Nashville Tennessean, 25 Nov. 2025

In 2023, leisure travelers began discovering this iconic property anew after the Institute tapped Salamander Hotels & Resorts to reimagine the historic site designed by Bauhaus master Herbert Bayer. —Siobhan Reid, Vogue, 25 Nov. 2025

With plenty of leisure activities, big lake energy, and low crime, Coeur d’Alene is a remote worker’s dream. —Emilee Coblentz, Outside, 24 Nov. 2025

Yet with time and energy left over after work and money to spend beyond the basic needs, the worker finds new use for his leisure. —Victor J. Blue, Harpers Magazine, 23 Nov. 2025

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
• 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