tourism

noun

tour·​ism ˈtu̇r-ˌi-zəm 

1

: the practice of traveling for recreation

2

: the guidance or management of tourists

3

a

: the promotion or encouragement of touring

b

: the accommodation of tourists

Examples of tourism in a Sentence

The city developed the riverfront to encourage tourism.

She has a job in tourism.

Recent Examples on the Web

Whereas, in Asia, there is this balance between nature and tourism. —Peter Hessler, New Yorker, 21 Mar. 2026

With a background spanning editorial storytelling, brand strategy, and destination reporting, Peña is known for covering travel through a human lens, spotlighting communities, design, and the people shaping modern tourism. —Rafael Peña, Miami Herald, 20 Mar. 2026

The reintroduction represents a major conservation victory and could boost tourism while demonstrating that coordinated efforts can overcome poaching threats. —Patrick Onen, Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2026

On Thursday, March 19, members of Mayor Cherelle Parker's administration and city tourism leaders announced more details about the FIFA Fan Festival — a fan experience set to be a gathering place for soccer fans from all around the world. —Joe Brandt, CBS News, 19 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for tourism

• ism
• pisum
• prism
• schism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism
• americanism
• anticommunism
• antisemitism
• antiterrorism
• bioterrorism
• colloquialism

Kids Definition

tourism

noun

tour·​ism ˈtu̇(ə)r-ˌiz-əm 

: the practice of traveling for pleasure or the business of encouraging and serving such traveling