hobby

1 of 2

noun (1)

hob·​by ˈhä-bē 

plural hobbies

: a small Old World falcon (Falco subbuteo) that is dark blue above and white below with dark streaking on the breast

hobby

2 of 2

noun (2)

plural hobbies

: a pursuit outside one's regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation

Writing is just a hobby of his.

Her hobbies include gardening and bird-watching.

hobbyist

ˈhä-bē-ist 

noun

Synonyms

Noun (2)

• avocation
• hobbyhorse
• pursuit
• recreation

Examples of hobby in a Sentence

Noun (2)

his ranch is just a weekend hobby—he makes his real money as an investment banker

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Other data points might include magazine subscription lists or hobbies. —Frank Witsil, Detroit Free Press, 2 Nov. 2024

That’s why both Ly and Epstein emphasize the importance of having personal interests and hobbies outside of your relationship. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 1 Nov. 2024

Try to cut back on being busy, and instead shift your focus onto filling your days with meaningful hobbies, tasks, and connections that bring you joy and ease. —Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Nov. 2024

Purpose gives meaning to your work, your hobbies, and your interactions with others. —Andrew Rosen, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Middle English hoby, from Anglo-French hobel, hobé

Noun (2)

short for hobbyhorse

First Known Use

Noun (1)

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1816, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

hobby

noun

hob·​by

ˈhäb-ē

plural hobbies

: an interest or activity to which a person devotes time for pleasure

hobbyist

-ē-əst

noun