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leisure

UK[ˈlɛʒə]US[ˈliːʒər]
n

Time when you are not working or occupied; free time.

n

The state of having time and freedom to do things you enjoy.

Etymology

The word 'leisure' originates from the Latin verb 'licere', which means "to be allowed" or "to be permitted". This concept of permission evolved through Old French 'leisir', which signified the freedom or opportunity to do something. The term entered Middle English with the sense of "opportunity" or "free time when one is permitted to cease work". Thus, the modern abstract meaning of discretionary time and freedom from obligatory activities is a direct semantic evolution from the ancient idea of being granted allowance or license.

Analysis

The word is a simplex form. It is a loanword from Anglo-French, derived from Old French 'leisir', meaning "to be permitted". This in turn came from Latin 'licere', meaning "to be allowed".

Examples

She enjoys reading and gardening in her leisure time.

The resort offers a variety of leisure activities for all ages.

He has little leisure now that he has started his own business.

leisure – Meaning, Etymology & Word Origin | OpenEtymology