athleisure

noun

ath·​lei·​sure ˈath-ˌlē-zhər 

-ˌle-,

-ˌlā-,

 nonstandard  ˈa-thə-

: casual clothing designed to be worn both for exercising and for general use

Of course, athleisure has lately become a fashion buzzword, a term intended to embrace the kind of clothing that a woman might be able to wear at work, to the gym, and then to dinner.

—Rob Haskell

—often used before another noun

Athleisure gear has reportedly unseated denim as the go-to clothing item of choice for teens.

—Nedra Rhone

Examples of athleisure in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While many park pros swear off denim shorts for athleisure styles like bike shorts, the right product won’t let the 20,000 daily steps stand between you and your outfit planning. —Jacqueline Dole, Travel + Leisure, 21 Apr. 2025

Acknowledging mom's everyday love for leggings, this fresh pair is a thoughtful gift that elevates her athleisure style. —Christa Joanna Lee, Glamour, 15 Apr. 2025

Maggie Witt has teamed up with Fit Brit, a Kansas City luxury women’s athleisure brand, to create a women’s workout apparel collection that launches Sunday. —Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 15 Apr. 2025

The designs feature a luxurious take on athleisure style, and promote sustainable practices for better peace-of-mind. —Julia Teti, WWD, 24 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

blend of athlete and leisure

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for athleisure

• displeasure
• countermeasure
• leisure
• measure
• pleasure
• treasure

Kids Definition

athleisure

noun

ath·​lei·​sure

ˈath-ˌlē-zhər,

-ˌle-,

-ˌlā-

: casual clothing designed to be worn both for exercising and for general use