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

Others can act as stimulants that increase energy levels in the body, reducing sleep and relaxation, such as the B-complex vitamins and caffeine. —Ayesha Gulzar, Verywell Health, 6 Jan. 2026

Your 12th House of Closure receives both the Sun and Venus, encouraging gentle retreat through your preferred methods of relaxation. —Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 6 Jan. 2026

Travelers seeking to balance the energy of Japan’s cities with relaxation can unwind at one of the country’s more than 3,000 onsen (hot springs) spread across the country. —Taryn White, Travel + Leisure, 6 Jan. 2026

But events in Venezuela provide a welcome distraction on that front, with Russia benefiting from any relaxation of efforts — or pressure — to reach a peace deal with Ukraine, or to enter into a ceasefire as part of any agreement. —Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 5 Jan. 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