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 Aritzia’s loungewear and athleisure are unmatched for their premium cloud-soft materials and flattering shapes, the brand has equally mastered the art of versatile workwear, like the highly coveted Effortless Pants for $148. —Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 3 Mar. 2026

Bündchen's Garnier commercial also saw her in a relaxed athleisure ensemble, composed of a chocolate-brown sports bra, matching leggings, and an army-green track jacket. —Christina Perrier, InStyle, 3 Mar. 2026

The Southern California athleisure brand signed Draper when his Nike contract expired last summer, in a deal worth around $5 million per year, according to two sources at the time, both of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity to protect relationships in tennis. —Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 2 Mar. 2026

While leggings will always be a part of my athleisure rotation, joggers are having a real moment in my wardrobe right now. —Quincy Bulin, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Feb. 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