relaxation

noun

re·​lax·​a·​tion ˌrē-ˌlak-ˈsā-shən 

ri-ˌlak-,

 especially British  ˌre-lək-

1

: the act of relaxing or state of being relaxed

2

: a relaxing or recreative state, activity, or pastime : diversion

3

: the lengthening that characterizes inactive muscle fibers or muscles

Synonyms

• dalliance
• frolic
• frolicking
• fun
• fun and games
• play
• recreation
• rollicking
• sport

Examples of relaxation in a Sentence

I like to play the guitar for relaxation.

What I need is some rest and relaxation.

Recent Examples on the Web

Progressive muscle relaxation: A technique that involves consciously tensing and then relaxing muscle groups one by one. —Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 24 Jan. 2025

That, combined with increasingly rare moments of relaxation, keeps our bodies constantly overstimulated. —Marie Bladt, Vogue, 22 Jan. 2025

These spaces are aesthetically inspired by hotels, resorts, and spas—places frequently associated with relaxation and elevated style—while demanding everyday practicality. —Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Jan. 2025

Read on to find out how else the WNBA star and Unrivaled launcher winds down for bed after a long day of training—from her go-to relaxation techniques to her multistep skin care regimen. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 21 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing relaxation

• autogenic relaxation

Kids Definition

relaxation

noun

re·​lax·​ation

ˌrē-ˌlak-ˈsā-shən,

ri-

1

: the act of relaxing : the state of being relaxed

2

: a relaxing activity or pastime

play the guitar as a relaxation

3

: the lengthening that characterizes inactive muscle

Medical Definition

relaxation

noun

re·​lax·​a·​tion

ˌrē-ˌlak-ˈsā-shən, ri-ˌlak-, especially British ˌrel-ək-

1

: the act of relaxing or state of being relaxed

maximal abdominal relaxation was not evident until at least five minutes after the injection

—Lancet

2

: the reduction of contractile force in a muscle or muscle fiber

especially : the lengthening that typically characterizes inactive muscles or muscle fibers