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

Phrases

at leisure or at one's leisure

: in one's leisure time : at one's convenience

read the book at her 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

The extensive outdoor living area, which boasts a large backyard and a two-story dock, offers waterfront access and leisure space. —Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 30 Oct. 2025

In his leisure time, Atharva loves learning about digital marketing and watching soccer matches. —Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 30 Oct. 2025

There was a fireplace with people sitting around, sipping drinks, and a lineup of precious mint-green bicycles, which visitors can use at their leisure to make their way around the grounds. —Rachel Desantis, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2025

There’s an ongoing drop in international visitors, leisure travel to Anaheim has been softening and a recession could be on the horizon. —Victoria Le, Oc Register, 29 Oct. 2025

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
• 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