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.
Named one of 2025’s best places to retire, this is a destination that’s all about relaxation—lounging on the beach, golfing, taking a leisurely bike ride, or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Huntington Beach State Park, which sits directly to the north. Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 29 June 2025 The lower level is designed for maximum fun: a bespoke (and soundproof!) theater room, fitness area, and flexible bonus space combine to offer a balance of relaxation and recreation. Miriam Schwartz, Boston Herald, 27 June 2025 Try the herbal sauna, Himalayan salt stone sauna, special experience shower, and heated relaxation lounge chairs before–and after–a treatment. Rona Berg, Forbes.com, 27 June 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, 26 June 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

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Cite this Entry

“Relaxation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relaxation. Accessed 8 Jul. 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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