relaxation

noun

re·​lax·​a·​tion ˌrē-ˌlak-ˈsā-shən How to pronounce relaxation (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The soaking scene has been around in Portland for about a decade, and health clubs such as Knot Springs have long attracted those in need of relaxation. Amanda Calnan Vowels, AFAR Media, 30 Jan. 2025 Best Amazon Self-Care Gifts Give the gift of relaxation this Valentine’s Day with these self care finds from $9. Alicia Geigel, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Jan. 2025 Here, nine of our favorite Miami Airbnbs for doing the most (or the least, if relaxation is key) on your visit. Adrienne Jordan, Architectural Digest, 29 Jan. 2025 For relaxation and recovery, the Sanctuary has added new meditation sessions along with new immersive content for players to enjoy. Alexandra Pastore, WWD, 29 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for relaxation 

Word History

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of relaxation was in 1548

Dictionary Entries Near relaxation

Cite this Entry

“Relaxation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relaxation. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.

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 injectionLancet
2
: the reduction of contractile force in a muscle or muscle fiber
especially : the lengthening that typically characterizes inactive muscles or muscle fibers

More from Merriam-Webster on relaxation

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