leeway

noun

lee·​way ˈlē-ˌwā 

1

: an allowable margin of freedom or variation : tolerance

The new rules allow managers greater leeway in making decisions.

2

a

: off-course lateral movement of a ship when underway

The sailboat's centerboard helps to reduce leeway.

b

: the angle between the heading and the track of an airplane

Synonyms

• latitude
• slack
• space
• wiggle room

Examples of leeway in a Sentence

They give their students leeway to try new things.

you will be given some leeway in choosing how to carry out the project

Recent Examples on the Web

Denmark and eight other countries blasted the European Court of Human Rights for imposing limits on deporting criminal migrants on Sunday. Denmark, which is set to take over the presidency of the European Union in July, published a letter demanding more leeway to expel immigrants who commit crimes. —Anders Hagstrom, FOXNews.com, 25 May 2025

Full Story House sends resolution giving polluters more leeway to Trump’s desk The House early Thursday morning voted to eliminate a Biden-era rule that sought to crack down on toxic air pollution, sending the resolution to President Trump’s desk. —Rachel Frazin, The Hill, 22 May 2025

Diversifying Digital Infrastructure Services often have a bit more leeway and may benefit from operating in multiple jurisdictions. —Maya Joelson, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025

Presidents, however, have wide leeway in setting refugee resettlement targets. —Chris Kenning, USA Today, 18 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1669, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Phrases Containing leeway

• make up (the) leeway

Rhymes for leeway

• airway
• allay
• archway
• array
• ashtray
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway
• beret

Kids Definition

leeway

noun

lee·​way ˈlē-ˌwā 

1

: sideways movement of a ship when under way

2

: an extra amount (as of room or time) that allows some freedom or variation