avocations

plural of avocation
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 Unlike in fields where avocations have to replace callings, academic retirees go on to pen as many articles and books as decline permits. Literary Hub, 18 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for avocations
Noun
  • After all, assuming new tasks requires another round of training, not just for middle-aged workers changing careers but also for retirees adopting new pursuits.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 18 June 2026
  • Beyond his infamously relentless rate of output (and all the frequent rebrandings and extracurricular pursuits he’s initiated along the way), Dwyer’s music is actually becoming more caustic and confrontational as time goes on.
    Stuart Berman, Pitchfork, 18 June 2026
Noun
  • The findings indicate that bird-watching and similar hobbies may support overall brain health, though researchers stop short of saying the activity definitively halts cognitive decline.
    Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 18 June 2026
  • Here are six brain-boosting hobbies that are backed by science.
    Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 17 June 2026
Noun
  • In a rematch of the WNBA’s first-ever game from June 21, 1997, the Sparks overcame a 17-point Liberty lead, all while celebrating the inaugural matchup — and iconic alumni — that changed women’s sports forever.
    Joaquin Ruiz, Los Angeles Times, 22 June 2026
  • Sling Orange is targeted for sports and family networks, with access to 30-plus live channels including CNN, Disney Channel and, of course, ESPN.
    Erin Lassner, HollywoodReporter, 21 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Avocations.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/avocations. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on avocations

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster