relaxation

noun

re·​lax·​a·​tion ˌrē-ˌlak-ˈsā-shən 

ri-ˌlak-

especially British ˌre-lək-

1

: the act of relaxing or state of being relaxed

2

: a relaxing or recreative state, activity, or pastime : diversion

3

: the lengthening that characterizes inactive muscle fibers or muscles

Synonyms of relaxation

• recreation
• fun
• entertainment
• enjoyment
• amusement

Examples of relaxation in a Sentence

I like to play the guitar for relaxation.

What I need is some rest and relaxation.

Recent Examples on the Web

If a little rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation are in order, the new Alila Mayakoba will be an excellent choice for an adult getaway. —Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 3 Feb. 2026

Opt for calming scents like lavender, eucalyptus, sandalwood, or vanilla—anything that instantly signals relaxation mode. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 3 Feb. 2026

But my favorite treatment was something called Revive to Thrive, which used a combination of Ayurvedic techniques to send you into a space of deep relaxation. —Arati Menon, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Jan. 2026

The nearly 78-foot-long sundeck, meanwhile, is a rather generous size that’s a signature of the T52 series that focused on open-air living, one that serves up another spot for dining, relaxation, and more. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 30 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing relaxation

• autogenic relaxation
• rest and relaxation

Rhymes for relaxation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

relaxation

noun

re·​lax·​ation

ˌrē-ˌlak-ˈsā-shən, 

ri-

1

: the act of relaxing : the state of being relaxed

2

: a relaxing activity or pastime

play the guitar as a relaxation

3

: the lengthening that characterizes inactive muscle

Medical Definition

relaxation

noun

re·​lax·​a·​tion

ˌrē-ˌlak-ˈsā-shən, ri-ˌlak-, especially British ˌrel-ək-

1

: the act of relaxing or state of being relaxed

maximal abdominal relaxation was not evident until at least five minutes after the injection

—Lancet

2

: the reduction of contractile force in a muscle or muscle fiber

especially : the lengthening that typically characterizes inactive muscles or muscle fibers