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

Here, plants frame a space featuring relaxation areas, a dedicated food and beverage island, hot and cold water circuits, in addition to treatment technologies. — Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2026

Lucid offers a couple of relaxation videos that span both screens, while also piping in atmospheric audio to transport you to the beach or lakeside. — Tyler Hayes, PC Magazine, 29 Sep. 2026

While reconnecting with her mother who was going through chemotherapy in the winter of 2024, Tati Varjao took her, and other family members who had traveled from Texas, to Sea Love, a candle making shop in Naperville for a day of relaxation. — Cam'ron Hardy, Chicago Tribune, 25 Sep. 2026

Melatonin has more evidence for sleep timing, while L-theanine supports relaxation without causing sedation. — T'keyah Bazin, Verywell Health, 25 Sep. 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