ˌavəˈkāshən noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin avocation-, avocatio, from avocatus (past participle of avocare to call away, from a, ab from, away + vocare to call, from voc-, vox voice) + -ion-, -io -ion — more at of , voice
1. archaic : a calling away : diversion , distraction
try, by every method of avocation and amusement, whether you cannot get the better of that dejection — Thomas Gray
2. : a subordinate occupation pursued in addition to one's regular work especially for enjoyment : hobby
a lawyer by profession but painting has been his avocation for years
— opposed to vocation
3. : regular or customary work or employment : vocation
• av·o·ca·tion·al | ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷| ̷ ̷shən ə l, -shnəl adjective