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

From soothing massages to rejuvenating treatments, this gift is pure relaxation. —Kasey Caminiti, USA Today, 21 Dec. 2025

The Spa The subterranean spa with seven treatment rooms and a 43-foot swimming pool, the largest in a Viennese hotel, completes the property’s mission of supplying quiet, rest, and relaxation to guests. —Lindsey Tramuta, Travel + Leisure, 19 Dec. 2025

Shinjuku Taking the bones of a 60-year-old wooden Japanese house, the Superhost owners of this lovely property kept relaxation top of mind when giving it a modern refresh. —Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 18 Dec. 2025

If holiday burnout has you in the mood for rest and relaxation, the star advises taking a break to enjoy one of her favorite holiday traditions—chilling out at home with the family. —Essence, 15 Dec. 2025

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