relaxation

noun

re·​lax·​a·​tion ˌrē-ˌlak-ˈsā-shən How to pronounce relaxation (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Here, guests will find nail therapy rooms with zero-gravity chairs, ​​a hydro therapy room, a med-spa room, and a relaxation room. Mae Hamilton, Travel + Leisure, 24 May 2025 Standout details include the 80-foot yacht’s twin-access swim platform that features the brand’s largest space for tender docking, watersports, and guest relaxation. Julia Zaltzman, Robb Report, 21 May 2025 The Pisces moon cools your jets, setting the stage for relaxation and reflection. Usa Today, USA Today, 21 May 2025 The class encompasses information about exercises to prepare the mother for birth, relaxation and coping techniques, pain control options, labor positioning, induction and C-section basics, recovery and welcoming baby. Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for relaxation

Word History

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of relaxation was in 1548

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Relaxation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relaxation. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

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 injectionLancet
2
: the reduction of contractile force in a muscle or muscle fiber
especially : the lengthening that typically characterizes inactive muscles or muscle fibers

More from Merriam-Webster on relaxation

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