athleisure

noun

ath·​lei·​sure ˈath-ˌlē-zhər 

-ˌle-,

-ˌlā-,

 nonstandard  ˈa-thə-

: casual clothing designed to be worn both for exercising and for general use

Of course, athleisure has lately become a fashion buzzword, a term intended to embrace the kind of clothing that a woman might be able to wear at work, to the gym, and then to dinner.

—Rob Haskell

—often used before another noun

Athleisure gear has reportedly unseated denim as the go-to clothing item of choice for teens.

—Nedra Rhone

Examples of athleisure in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In a sponsor category long dominated by two giants, the athleisure maker joins a wave of challengers tempting star players with opportunities for creative input—and lucrative financial terms. —Matt Craig, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2025

Pair the stylist accessory with flats and a dress, a white tee and jeans, your favorite athleisure, or your best business attire. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Aug. 2025

Wouldn’t Scott be the best person to speak to which athleisure outfit Calia should produce and sell? —Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 15 Aug. 2025

Workout gear became acceptable everyday wear thanks to the athleisure craze, and what used to be reserved for casual Fridays at the office is now the new standard. —Catherine Santino, People.com, 9 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

blend of athlete and leisure

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for athleisure

• displeasure
• countermeasure
• leisure
• measure
• pleasure
• treasure

Kids Definition

athleisure

noun

ath·​lei·​sure

ˈath-ˌlē-zhər,

-ˌle-,

-ˌlā-

: casual clothing designed to be worn both for exercising and for general use