athleisure

noun

ath·​lei·​sure ˈath-ˌlē-zhər How to pronounce athleisure (audio)
-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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Alo Yoga Sweet Escape Zip-Up Hoodie Replicate Ginny’s casual athleisure look with this similar zip-up hoodie from Alo Yoga. Madison Yauger, People.com, 18 June 2025 In technical fashion, its quick-drying capabilities and compressible structure enable sleek, minimalist designs without sacrificing functionality—especially for urban consumers who crave stylish, performance athleisure. Sj Studio, Sourcing Journal, 17 June 2025 Case in point: Bella Hadid styled her white pair with a Princess Diana-worthy athleisure look complete with bike shorts and tube socks, while Ella Emhoff paired hers with a tailored suede jacket, mini skirt, and tights. Lauren Alexis Fisher, Footwear News, 16 June 2025 Athleta Pinnacle High-rise Trousers $129 at Athleta Athleta's high-rise trousers feature breathable, quick-drying, and wrinkle-resistant fabric, blending elevated athleisure with polished style. Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 13 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for athleisure

Word History

Etymology

blend of athlete and leisure

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of athleisure was in 1976

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Athleisure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/athleisure. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!