as in hobby
an activity outside of one's regular occupation that is engaged in primarily for pleasure photography is merely an avocation for me—I've never tried to make money off of it

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of avocation And the Romans had other, less-objectionable avocations. Cody Cottier, Discover Magazine, 5 Mar. 2024 Today, cooking has become a major generational avocation and source of pride. Alexandra Moe, The Atlantic, 6 Dec. 2023 Carter’s new avocation as an end-of-life doula is an outgrowth of the more than 15 years the Detroit native has spent doing hospice work in her free time. George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Sep. 2023 Some grandparents completely suppress their other identities in favor of their role as a grandparent, and while this can be great for the grandkids and their folks – this new avocation will swamp other relationships. Amy Dickinson, Anchorage Daily News, 31 Aug. 2023 See All Example Sentences for avocation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for avocation
Noun
  • Perhaps her charms represent trips to Europe, tokens of luck, indications of hobbies, or nods to significant milestones.
    Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 1 June 2025
  • Braunstein is a full-time mom, student and hobby farmer in Grand Rapids, Minn.
    Erica Zurek, Twin Cities, 31 May 2025
Noun
  • In the pursuit of progress, asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
    ByDr. Marita Kinney, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025
  • Deputies began a pursuit of the driver, and Harrison officers assisted by pinning the vehicle, Graddy said.
    Mike Stunson, Kansas City Star, 29 May 2025
Noun
  • Add-ons include coverage for rental vehicles, pets, adventure sports and wedding cancellations Cancel For Any Reason coverage Add-on to Preferred and Deluxe plans reimbursing 50% of trip costs if purchased within 15 days of initial deposit.
    Jason Stauffer, CNBC, 1 June 2025
  • Cardoso feels her passing is the most underrated aspect of her game — and Vandersloot, one of the greatest passing guards in the history of the sport, agrees.
    Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 31 May 2025
Noun
  • Amid unsettling changes, Americans touted the curative powers of the natural world, fueling the call for outdoor exercise and recreation, and laying the groundwork for the astounding growth of national and state park tourism.
    Time, Time, 3 June 2025
  • April’s report showed that job openings increased across most sectors, with some of the largest upswings seen in arts, entertainment and recreation; mining and logging; information; and professional and business services.
    Alicia Wallace, CNN Money, 3 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Avocation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/avocation. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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