relax

verb

re·lax | \ ri-ˈlaks

relaxed; relaxing; relaxes

Definition of relax

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)

Other Words from relax Synonyms & Antonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about relax

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Synonyms & Antonyms for relax

Synonyms

ease, loosen, slack, slacken

Antonyms

strain, stretch, tense, tension, tighten

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 on the Web

As a result, Wimbledon officials are forced to relax their rigid rules of Centre Court that hold that spectators must switch off their phones and devices during play. — Sam Farmer, latimes.com, "England riding high on World Cup success as Wimbledon also creates a racket," 11 July 2018 The duo were spotted sharing a kiss while relaxing on a beach looking healthy and well. — Fox News, "Johnny Depp's son Jack looks healthy on beach trip amid reports of 'serious illness'," 10 July 2018 Many of the posts used a recent photo of Selena relaxing on a yacht looking gorgeous and very carefree. — Isabel Greenberg, Harper's BAZAAR, "Twitter Is Celebrating That Selena Gomez Will Never Ever Date Justin Bieber Again," 9 July 2018 In the image, Salem appears to be super chill, relaxing on the sand in a fiery red one-piece suit. — Mekita Rivas, Teen Vogue, "Model Salem Mitchell Responds To a Commenter Who Called Her “Ghetto”," 9 July 2018 The 1,500-square-foot property spans two levels and features plenty of space to relax at sea indoors or outdoors—we’re eyeing that spacious outdoor terrace. — Alex Bazeley, Curbed, "Luxe Danish houseboat with terrace yours for $925K," 29 June 2018 Head to the Cape via I-90 and relax at the waterfront Wequassett Resort in Harwich, with its onsite 18-hole golf club, beaches, and classic clapboard cottages. — Mark Ellwood, Condé Nast Traveler, "The Best Places to Visit in July," 15 June 2018 The happy family was photographed relaxing on the grass during the Maserati Royal Charity Polo Trophy competition at the Beaufort Polo Club, a match that included Prince William as a player. — Lisa Ryan, The Cut, "These Pics of Kate Middleton and Her Royal Kids Are Too Cute," 11 June 2018 Last year, Christie shut it down for three days, then was castigated on social media after he and his family were photographed relaxing on a closed state-run beach. — Elise Young, Bloomberg.com, "Murphy's Spending Has Even Democrats Balking in New Jersey," 5 June 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.