pastime

noun

pas·​time ˈpas-ˌtīm How to pronounce pastime (audio)
: something that amuses and serves to make time pass agreeably : diversion
Her favorite pastime is gardening.
Baseball has been a national pastime for many years.

Examples of pastime in a Sentence

Baseball has been a national pastime for years.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Major League Baseball has a rich history of Hall of Fame and star players from other nations who made their mark on America’s pastime. Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 20 June 2025 Getting outdoors and exploring natural wonders on foot is a popular pastime for many. Kevin Brouillard, Travel + Leisure, 19 June 2025 Fishing is a beloved pastime throughout the Keys, and underwater adventure doesn’t get much better than in Key Largo. Chloe Arrojado, AFAR Media, 17 June 2025 Black Cyclists Who Inspire The face of cycling, once viewed as a predominately white sport and pastime, is changing fast. Ron Stodghill, Miami Herald, 12 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for pastime

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pastime was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pastime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pastime. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

pastime

noun
pas·​time ˈpas-ˌtīm How to pronounce pastime (audio)
: something that helps to make time pass agreeably

More from Merriam-Webster on pastime

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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