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 This not only emphasizes physiological benefits but also showcases the product's ability to offer moments of peace, relaxation and self-connection. Nicole Dunn, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024 Matcha boasts a boost of antioxidants and the amino acid L-Theanine, which is thought to promote relaxation and jitter-free, sustained energy. Kate Kassin, Bon Appétit, 26 Feb. 2024 Sound baths are one of the most popular emerging relaxation techniques that many people are participating in. Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 23 Feb. 2024 Regularly practicing yoga can help reduce stress, increase relaxation and improve flexibility. Eimear Lynch Monica Khemsurov Kurt Soller Gisela Williams Caitie Kelly Elissa Suh, New York Times, 22 Feb. 2024 Opt for one with a deep-soaking tub to kick your post-practice relaxation up a notch. Julia Eskins, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Feb. 2024 Moderate performance benefits have also been reported for other techniques for countering stress, such as biofeedback, and possibly meditation and relaxation training. Tom Siegfried, Smithsonian Magazine, 13 Feb. 2024 Remote work saves this time and your employees can use this time for more productivity or relaxation. 3. Leonard Martin Schmedding, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2024 Find it on Amazon A Deep Cleaning Steam Facial Enjoy the deep cleansing and relaxation of steam facial right at home with this best-selling facial steamer! Micaela Arnett, Rolling Stone, 20 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'relaxation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 19 Mar. 2024.

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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