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

For the ultimate party, groups of up to eight people can book the Super Nova Suite with a private relaxation lounge, vitality pool, steam shower, sauna, and three treatment tables. —David Morris, Travel + Leisure, 19 Apr. 2024

These soft gel capsule from Nature Made are a good dietary supplement option that may also help support muscle relaxation as well as nerve, heart, and bone health. —Marilyn La Jeunesse, Glamour, 12 Apr. 2024

Check out a winter wonderland inspired by Reneé Rapp’s Snow Angel album, a retro snack bar with alcohol-free drinks by The New Bar, a fashion boutique, a relaxation corner, complimentary glam services with In Your Dreams and exclusive merch from performers like Tyler, the Creator and Rapp. —Danielle Directo-Meston, The Hollywood Reporter, 9 Apr. 2024

Before bed, consciously soothe your nervous system with relaxation techniques like meditative deep breathing, calming yoga flows, and body scans. —Hilary Tetenbaum, Detroit Free Press, 8 Apr. 2024

This Mother’s Day, give her the gift of relaxation. —Moriah Mason, Southern Living, 5 Apr. 2024

Possible behavior changes can include: aggression happiness overt signs of affection playfulness relaxation What colors can cats see? Cats can only see blue, yellow and shades of gray, according to animaleyegroup.com. —Chris Sims, The Indianapolis Star, 4 Apr. 2024

This combo is guaranteed to whisk you away to a land of ultimate relaxation and peace. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024

In addition, the transom and side terraces can fold out to create additional waterside relaxation areas. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 8 Apr. 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