(ˌ)rēˌlakˈsāshən, rə̇ˌ- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin relaxation-, relaxatio, from relaxatus (past participle of relaxare to relax) + -ion-, -io -ion — more at relax
1. : the act or fact of relaxing or of being relaxed
relaxation of the muscles
the relaxation of discipline
relaxation of a law
2. : an abatement or remission of a penalty or payment
ask for relaxation in war reparations
a relaxation of a fine
3. : a relaxing or recreative state, activity, or pastime : diversion , recreation
play golf as a relaxation
seek relaxation in the country
4. Scots law : release from or cancellation of legal restriction or penalty ; especially : release from a penalty (as outlawry) judicially imposed
5. : the lengthening that characterizes inactive muscle fibers or muscles
6. : the adjustment of a system to a state of equilibrium following the abrupt removal of some influence (as a magnetic force, a high temperature)
Synonyms: see rest