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

Tryptophan is an amino acid that your body uses to produce serotonin and melatonin, both of which promote relaxation and better sleep. — Mura Dominko, Martha Stewart, 9 Aug. 2026

To turn your bedroom into a serene oasis conducive to rest and relaxation, the organizer recommends incorporating thoughtful storage solutions that eliminate visual clutter. — Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 8 Aug. 2026

The 59-year-old actress shared a series of Instagram photos from a tropical getaway in Fiji, offering glimpses of quiet mornings, poolside relaxation and sunset walks along the beach. — Danielle Minnetian, FOXNews.com, 6 Aug. 2026

The practice, known as hive air therapy, is claimed to promote health, relaxation and general well-being through the use of honeybees. — Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 6 Aug. 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