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

• 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

Leaving that leeway is always a key part of Black’s process. —Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 1 Oct. 2025

But with little leeway given on either side, lawmakers are widely expecting funding to lapse. —Al Weaver, The Hill, 29 Sep. 2025

Under late Padres owner Peter Seidler, Preller benefited from unprecedented resources and significant leeway for his aggressive style. —Brittany Ghiroli, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025

The slouchy crewneck has a relaxed fit, and the joggers taper at the ankle, giving you total leeway in the shoe department. —Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2025

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
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway
• beret

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