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

• dalliance
• frolic
• frolicking
• fun
• fun and games
• play
• recreation
• rollicking
• sport

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

The Benner team achieves this gracefully in the upper gardens, which allow for relaxation, as well as the visual enjoyment of colorful flowers and visiting wildlife. —Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 27 Aug. 2024

The lot of the property is substantial, measuring 0.4-acre, and boasts a pool for relaxation and recreation. —Bay Area Home Report, The Mercury News, 15 Aug. 2024

By Veronica Cristino Celebrity Style This Is Your New Transitional Staple, According to Kylie Jenner, Katie Holmes, and Blake Lively By Alice Newbold Want a trip centered around rest and relaxation? —Elise Taylor, Vogue, 18 Aug. 2024

If you’re motivated by rest and relaxation instead, this quiet corner of southwestern Montana isn’t any less attractive, either. —Brad Japhe, Travel + Leisure, 14 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing relaxation

• autogenic relaxation

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