recreation

noun

rec·​re·​a·​tion ˌre-krē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce recreation (audio)
Synonyms of recreation
: refreshment of strength and spirits after work
also : a means of refreshment or diversion : hobby

Synonyms of recreation

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Examples of recreation in a Sentence

The fields next to the school are used for recreation. decided to take a bike tour of the island for recreation 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 youth center has been a community staple for decades where children and teenagers turned for academic support and recreation. — Charlotte Observer, 28 Aug. 2026 As Gardner continues to grow in size, Andrea Brammell wants to see more activities, retail and recreation come into town to support its residents. — Taylor O'Connor 28, Kansas City Star, 28 Aug. 2026 That could leave more of your budget for travel, dining, recreation, and other activities that add value to your life. — Kathleen Peddicord, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026 Agencies and other entities that use APLRs include law enforcement and fire departments, as well as schools, residential communities, businesses and parks and recreation departments. — Sacbee.com, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for recreation

Word History

Etymology

Middle English recreacioun "act of refreshment, action of amusing," borrowed from Anglo-French & Late Latin; Anglo-French, borrowed from Late Latin recreātiōn-, recreātiō "spiritual refreshment, amusement, new birth," going back to Latin, "act of restoring," from recreāre "to make new, restore, revive" (from re- re- + creāre "to bring into being, beget, give birth to") + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at create entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of recreation was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing recreation

Rhymes for recreation

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Browse Nearby Words

re-create
recreation
recreational
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Cite this Entry

“Recreation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/recreation. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

recreation

noun
rec·​re·​ation
ˌrek-rē-ˈā-shən
1
: refreshment of mind or body after work or worry : diversion
2
: a way of refreshing mind or body
hiking is our favorite recreation
recreational
-shnəl, 
-shən-ᵊl
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on recreation

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about recreation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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