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

The source also said that Old Navy is considering a free-standing athleisure format. —David Moin, Footwear News, 6 May 2026

Ballet flats, loafers, Mary Janes, and yes, even heels, are perfect for refreshing this athleisure trend. —Tatiana Ojea, Glamour, 3 May 2026

Long before the rise of athleisure, when brands hawking leggings and athleticwear seemed to grow by the minute, there was Nike. —Madison Flager, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 May 2026

In keeping with my love of athleisure, this skort is so springtime for me. —Alexandra Pereira, Travel + Leisure, 23 Apr. 2026

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