relaxation
12 synonyms and 2 antonyms for relaxation, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A state of rest and reduced tension, or an activity that produces it.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use relaxation
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
deep relaxation
relaxation techniques
relaxation of restrictions
Etymology
Borrowed from Latin relaxatio, itself formed from relax plus the noun-forming suffix -ation.
Full origin of relaxation →Frequently asked questions
What does “relaxation” mean?
The word “relaxation” means a state of rest and reduced tension, or an activity that produces it. In plain terms, the state of being relaxed, or an easing-up of tension or rules.
How do you pronounce “relaxation”?
“Relaxation” is pronounced ree-lak-SAY-shuhn (/rᵻˌlækˈseɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “relaxation” in a sentence?
Here is “relaxation” used in a sentence: “A hot bath is her favourite form of relaxation.”
What part of speech is “relaxation”?
“Relaxation” is a noun.
Where does the word “relaxation” come from?
The word “relaxation” comes from Latin. Borrowed from Latin relaxatio, itself formed from relax plus the noun-forming suffix -ation.
Is “relaxation” a common word?
“Relaxation” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “relaxation” have?
“Relaxation” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a state of rest and reduced tension, or an activity that produces it.
What is the difference between relaxation and rest?
Relaxation refers to a state of reduced tension or an activity that produces that state, such as reading or taking a bath. Rest more specifically means ceasing activity or exertion, often to recover physical or mental energy, such as sleeping or sitting still. Relaxation can happen during an active pastime, while rest usually implies stopping activity altogether.
What is the difference between relaxation and leisure?
Relaxation describes the state of reduced tension itself or an activity aimed at achieving it. Leisure describes free time available for any activity of one's choosing, which may or may not be relaxing. Leisure time can be spent on relaxation, but it can also be spent on demanding hobbies.
How is relaxation used to describe a rule change?
Relaxation can describe a loosening or lessening of something strict, such as a relaxation of a dress code or a relaxation of trade restrictions. In this sense the word refers to rules becoming less rigid rather than to rest or calm.
