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

But with the rest of the year being a steady whirlwind of work, kids and other responsibilities, some people aren't used to having hours of free time to spend on leisure and visiting. —Jenny Porter Tilley, The Courier-Journal, 27 Nov. 2024

Since Real Club de Campo opened in 1925 as Andalusia’s first golf course, the popular leisure activity has exploded across Costa del Sol. —Michael Loré, Forbes, 25 Nov. 2024

Before evolving to leisure, hiking, exploring, or simply being outdoors were extensions of necessity and lifestyle structures. —Essence, 25 Nov. 2024

Meanwhile, employment in the leisure and hospitality category was down 18,500 jobs, construction jobs fell by 5,400, and manufacturing was off 1,100 jobs. —Jim Turner, Orlando Sentinel, 15 Nov. 2024

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

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