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

But although the court has been expanding executive power in some situations, the justices have reduced the leeway administrative agencies have to issue regulations that add additional requirements to clear statutes. — Benjamin Leff, The Conversation, 9 July 2026

White jeans offer much more leeway to play with poppy seasonal colors or rich textures, like raffia, suede, and leather. — Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 8 July 2026

Both companies were initially racing to make their Wall Street debuts as soon as this year to secure fresh capital and support their heavy spending — but private fundraisings and credit lines give them more leeway. — Bloomberg, Mercury News, 8 July 2026

The two-run lead gave Cubs starter Javier Assad some leeway after a sluggish second inning. — Andy Martinez, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 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