leeway

noun

lee·​way ˈlē-ˌwā 

1

: an allowable margin of freedom or variation : tolerance

The new rules allow managers greater leeway in making decisions.

2

a

: off-course lateral movement of a ship when underway

The sailboat's centerboard helps to reduce leeway.

b

: the angle between the heading and the track of an airplane

Synonyms of leeway

• slack
• latitude

Examples of leeway in a Sentence

They give their students leeway to try new things.

you will be given some leeway in choosing how to carry out the project

Recent Examples on the Web

That leeway allowed these workers to look for a new job or to change their immigration status. — Chad De Guzman, Time, 11 Sep. 2026

While Bessent has not been as successful bringing the behemoth bond market to heel with his comments this week, his results with the yen and his reputation as a successful hedge fund manager may offer him some leeway for now, said Kikis. — Marco Quiroz-Gutierrez, Fortune, 10 Sep. 2026

Lawmakers said lower wholesale prices could create more leeway for Kenya Power to cut consumer rates without damaging its finances. — ABC News, 19 Aug. 2026

Male actors seem to be given more leeway than female stars to display bigger personalities without the public turning on them. — David MacK, CNN Money, 14 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1669, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Phrases Containing leeway

• make up (the) leeway

Rhymes for leeway

• airway
• allay
• archway
• array
• ashtray
• assez
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway

Kids Definition

leeway

noun

lee·​way ˈlē-ˌwā 

1

: sideways movement of a ship when under way

2

: an extra amount (as of room or time) that allows some freedom or variation