Avocation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จ
avocation
[หavษหkeษชส(ษ)n ]
Definition
personal interest
An avocation is a hobby or activity pursued for pleasure and not as a main occupation. It is something that brings enjoyment and fulfillment outside of work or daily responsibilities.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Her avocation is painting landscapes on weekends.
- He finds gardening to be a relaxing avocation after a long day at the office.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Engaging in avocations can significantly boost mental health, relieving stress and enhancing creativity.
- Studies show that hobbies can improve overall life satisfaction, contributing to a well-rounded, fulfilling life.
- Having a strong avocation can lead to increased resilience, helping individuals cope better with the stresses of daily life.
Career Development
- Many successful people attribute their creativity and innovation in their fields to engaging in avocations.
- Avocations can lead to networking opportunities, providing connections that may enhance one's professional life.
- Balancing work and avocations often results in better time management and increased productivity.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have unique perspectives on avocations; in some places, they are seen as essential for work-life balance.
- In Japan, many people engage in 'hobby culture', where avocations are celebrated and often integrated into social life.
- The rise of social media has allowed people to share their avocations widely, creating communities around shared interests.
Literature
- Avocations are often featured in literature as a means for characters to escape their everyday realities.
- Famous authors like J.K. Rowling and Stephen King had avocations outside of writing that inspired their creations.
- Many autobiographies highlight how personal interests can shape a personโs life journey beyond their professional identity.
Origin of 'avocation'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'avocation' comes from the Latin word 'avocatio', meaning 'to summon away' from work.
- It was originally used in English around the early 15th century, referring to a calling away from professional duties.
- The prefix 'a-' means 'away from', indicating that an avocation is something enjoyable done away from regular work.
The word 'avocation' originated from the Latin word 'avocatio' which means a calling away or distraction. It was first used in the mid-17th century to refer to a diversion or pastime. Over time, it evolved to represent a hobby or personal interest pursued outside of one's main occupation.
See also: vocations.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #26,732, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
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- 26729 snob
- 26730 grammarian
- 26731 oppressing
- 26732 avocation
- 26733 emporium
- 26734 invigorated
- 26735 arty
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