v.
Pronunciation: ri- ' laks
Function: verb
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin relaxare, from re- + laxare to loosen, from laxus loose ― more at SLACK
Date: 15th century
transitive verb
1 : to make less tense or rigid : SLACKEN < relax ed his grip>
2 : to make less severe or stringent : MODIFY < relax immigration laws>
3 : to deprive of energy, zeal, or strength of purpose
4 : to relieve from nervous tension
5 : to treat (hair) chemically in order to relax curls
intransitive verb
1 : to become lax, weak, or loose : REST
2 : to become less intense or severe <hoped the committee would relax in its opposition>
3 of a muscle or muscle fiber : to become inactive and lengthen
4 : to cast off social restraint, nervous tension, or anxiety <couldn't relax in crowds>
5 : to seek rest or recreation < relax at the seashore>
6 : to relieve constipation
7 : to attain equilibrium following the abrupt removal of some influence (as light, high temperature, or stress)
– re · lax · er noun