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

Kendall Jenner swapped out one of her favorite athleisure styles for a chic update. —Lara Walsh, InStyle, 7 Jan. 2026

Dressed in athleisure, Maduro appears composed, almost casual—closer to a figure en route to a tennis match than one forcibly removed from power. —Debbie Millman, Time, 7 Jan. 2026

The quarter-button-down style and stand collar are a cute pairing for a simple athleisure outfit with leggings or lounge pants. —Olivia Dubyak, Travel + Leisure, 4 Jan. 2026

The sale is rife with stylish handbags, comfortable athleisure, luxe-looking sweaters, and so much more. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Dec. 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