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

• 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

For the average person, being massaged in a public space, as part of a competition, might be a relaxation-proof challenge. —Sarah Larson, New Yorker, 8 Sep. 2025

According to recent study by Campspot, citing industry data, 70% of travelers are craving calm and relaxation on their trips. —Dave Smith, Fortune, 8 Sep. 2025

The lagoon is a two-level luxury retreat offering relaxation set against Iceland’s stunning natural landscape. —Mia Taylor, Boston Herald, 7 Sep. 2025

Bahia Honda State Park For people who want a little bit of history, relaxation, and exploration, Bahia Honda State Park is the perfect place to visit. —Teaghan Skulszki, Travel + Leisure, 6 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing relaxation

• autogenic 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