as in pursuits
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
Relevance
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 avocations
The cultural upbringing, hobbies, avocations, passions, and beliefs of Mercado and Oscar are virtually the same.
—
Literary Hub, 12 May 2026
Literary Hub, 12 May 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for avocations
Noun
-
The Alps—Europe’s tallest and most sprawling mountain range—stretches across eight countries and 750 miles of terrain, setting the high bar for the world’s skiing, hiking, and biking pursuits.—
Sarah Wood González,
Vogue,
12 June 2026
-
The combination of vivid landscapes, attractions and activities, and cultural pursuits makes Samaná a unique destination that continues to gain ground on the world tourism map.—
Condé Nast Traveler,
Condé Nast Traveler,
11 June 2026
Noun
-
The listing includes a barn and a 2,400-square-foot insulated shop geared toward car, boat or RV storage — a nod to the owners’ hobbies, including vintage wooden boats, according to background and the agent.—
David Caraccio,
Sacbee.com,
12 June 2026
-
The retailer is embracing the trend of digital minimalism and analog hobbies this year, releasing hundreds of beginner-friendly kits that anyone can craft with.—
Sophia Beams,
Better Homes & Gardens,
11 June 2026
Noun
-
This is the most recent development in a DOE investigation into the district, claiming the schools allowed male students to participate on female sports teams, use female bathrooms, and share overnight accommodations with female students based on their gender identity.—
Christa Swanson,
CBS News,
15 June 2026
-
The definition of sports memorabilia has expanded in recent years alongside a boom in collecting and the support of companies like The Realest, which has developed an expertise in authenticating off-beat items, from Lincoln Financial Field snow to a Ryder Cup rake.—
Jacob Feldman,
Sportico.com,
14 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Avocations.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/avocations. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
