relax

verb re·lax \ ri-ˈlaks \

|Updated on: 9 Aug 2018

Examples: relax in a Sentence

Definition of relax

relaxed; relaxing; relaxes

transitive verb

1 : to make less tense or rigid : slacken

relaxed his grip

2 : to make less severe or stringent : modify

relax immigration laws

3 : to deprive of energy, zeal, or strength of purpose

4 : to relieve from nervous tension

5 : to treat (hair) chemically in order to relax curls

intransitive verb

1 : to become lax, weak, or loose : rest

2 : to become less intense or severe

hoped the committee would relax in its opposition

3 of a muscle or muscle fiber : to become inactive and lengthen

4 : to cast off social restraint, nervous tension, or anxiety

couldn't relax in crowds

5 : to seek rest or recreation

relax at the seashore

6 : to relieve constipation

7 : to attain equilibrium following the abrupt removal of some influence (such as light, high temperature, or stress)

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relaxer

noun

See relax defined for English-language learners

See relax defined for kids

Examples of relax in a Sentence

The muscles in my neck and shoulders should relax after a nice hot shower.
A hot shower relaxed the tight muscles in my neck and shoulders.
I can't relax with all this noise!
Just relax, there's nothing to worry about.
Try to relax and enjoy the ride.

Recent Examples of relax from the Web

The average person with this sort of work schedule would probably take some time to relax, perhaps even catch a quick nap.

— shaun goodwin, kansascity, "She's a Kansas City cop using soccer to help kids realize their potential," 26 June 2018
The sunset cruise travels from the port to Sandy Beach and back, stopping for sunset selfies, giving first-time visitors a great, relaxing introduction to Rocky Point from the water.

— dawn gilbertson, azcentral, "Beyond the beach in Rocky Point, Mexico: 6 things to do in Puerto Penasco," 25 June 2018
Clint Bowyer did some fishing While surely still celebrating his second win of the season on June 10 at Michigan International Speedway, Bowyer spent some time relaxing with a fishing pole and his son, Cash.

— michelle r. martinelli, For The Win, "How 14 NASCAR drivers spent their time off, from Switzerland to the World Cup," 19 June 2018
One of the originals, Jester King Brewery in Dripping Springs, is situated in a picturesque setting that makes for a great place to sit and relax with a beer and a pie from the onsite restaurant, Stanley’s Farmhouse Pizza.

— San Antonio Express-News, "Father’s Day pairs best with a great beer," 14 June 2018
Next week: Coming home, and a chance to relax — in the Cadillac CT6 with SuperCruise.

— scott sturgis, Philly.com, "Traversing France in the Toyota C-HR Hybrid," 14 June 2018
Leroy’s Kitchen + Lounge is the place where dads can kick back and relax with a beer from one of the restaurant’s large draft selections, while eating a Leroy’s burger crafted with bacon jam and house pickles.

— carolina gusman, sandiegouniontribune.com, "Skip the tie: 45 Father's Day dining specials in San Diego County," 9 June 2018
Even better, plan a cookout: reserve a grill in advance to picnic and relax until the sunset.

— New York Times, "Things to Do in New York That Are Not the Governors Ball," 31 May 2018
Memorial Day weekend is a time to honor our fallen troops, relax with the family and, of course, shop.

— chris sims, Indianapolis Star, "Memorial Day Sales: 21 places to score a deal," 22 May 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'relax.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of relax

Middle English, from Latin relaxare, from re- + laxare to loosen, from laxus loose — more at slack

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 15th century

in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

See Words from the same year

relax Synonyms

RELAX Defined for English Language Learners

relax

verb

Definition of relax for English Language Learners

: to become or to cause (something) to become less tense, tight, or stiff
: to stop feeling nervous or worried
: to spend time resting or doing something enjoyable especially after you have been doing work