leisure

noun

lei·​sure ˈlē-zhər  ˈle- 

ˈlā-

1

: freedom provided by the cessation of activities

especially : time free from work or duties

Increase of leisure, diminution of hustle are the ends to be sought …

—Bertrand Russell

2

: ease, leisureliness

leisure adjective

see also:

at leisure

Synonyms of leisure

• relaxation
• rest
• resting

Examples of leisure in a Sentence

I don't have much time for leisure.

upon retiring, the elderly couple looked forward to a life of well-deserved leisure

Recent Examples on the Web

Out of an average of five hours and 10 minutes of leisure and sports time per day, people ages 15 and older spend an average of about two and a half hours watching TV, and another 37 minutes on activities like video games and social media. — Gili Malinsky, CNBC, 23 July 2026

Nearly a century ago, John Maynard Keynes envisioned technology leading to abundance and more leisure, freeing humanity for deeper purpose. — Belonging Forum, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

While there’s definitely cause for concern (leisure reading rates have declined 40% over 20 years, one study found), there’s still hope. — Clare Mulroy, USA Today, 22 July 2026

Amenities combine flashy fitness, wellness, leisure and community spaces. — Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 21 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English leiser, from Anglo-French leisir, from leisir to be permitted, from Latin licēre — see license entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing leisure

• a lady/man/gentleman of leisure
• a life of leisure
• at leisure
• at one's leisure
• leisure class
• leisure suit

Rhymes for leisure

• measure
• pleasure
• treasure
• countermeasure
• displeasure

Kids Definition

leisure

noun

lei·​sure ˈlēzh-ər  ˈlezh- 

ˈlāzh-

1

: freedom from work or duties

2

: ease entry 1 sense 1

3

: time at one's command : convenience

has the leisure to pursue a hobby

leisure adjective