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

Zay cites the sandwich's cultural significance, role in tourism, and positive impact on the state's pork industry as rationale for the designation. —Katie Wiseman, IndyStar, 8 Jan. 2026

For the Redwood region, jobs in tourism, health, forestry and fisheries. —Sacramento Bee Staff, Sacbee.com, 8 Jan. 2026

Though the resort reopened one lift this week, tourism has plummeted and the effects have already trickled down to the local workforce. —Tiney Ricciardi, Denver Post, 8 Jan. 2026

And the lack of snow is putting a damper on the tourism business. —Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 8 Jan. 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