leisure

noun

lei·​sure ˈlē-zhər  ˈle- 

ˈlā-

1

: freedom provided by the cessation of activities

especially : time free from work or duties

increase of leisure, diminution of hustle are the ends to be sought

—Bertrand Russell

2

: ease, leisureliness

leisure adjective

Phrases

at leisure or at one's leisure

: in one's leisure time : at one's convenience

read the book at her leisure

Synonyms

• decompression
• ease
• relaxation
• repose
• rest

Examples of leisure in a Sentence

I don't have much time for leisure.

upon retiring, the elderly couple looked forward to a life of well-deserved leisure

Recent Examples on the Web

For those whose leisure time includes wine country travel, the Superieur and Exceptionnel levels also consider the overall visitor experience at each château, including public facilities and hospitality options. —Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 9 Mar. 2025

Injuries due to micromobility devices used for transportation and leisure increased by an average of 23% annually between 2017 and 2022, according to the report. —Katia Hetter, CNN, 5 Mar. 2025

Education and health services had some of the weakest job growth last month, while manufacturing, construction and leisure and hospitality showed strength, the data showed. —Rob Wile, NBC News, 5 Mar. 2025

However, several primitive campsites, boat ramps, and fishing piers sprinkled across the area give plenty of access to enjoy the lake at your leisure. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 1 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English leiser, from Anglo-French leisir, from leisir to be permitted, from Latin licēre — see license entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing leisure

• a lady/man/gentleman of leisure
• a life of leisure
• leisure class
• leisure suit

Rhymes for leisure

• measure
• pleasure
• treasure
• countermeasure
• displeasure

Kids Definition

leisure

noun

lei·​sure ˈlēzh-ər  ˈlezh- 

ˈlāzh-

1

: freedom from work or duties

2

: ease entry 1 sense 1

3

: time at one's command : convenience

has the leisure to pursue a hobby

leisure adjective