Hobby Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hobby
[ˈhɒbi ]
Definitions
leisure activity
An activity done regularly in one's leisure time for pleasure and enjoyment.
Synonyms
interest, leisure pursuit, pastime.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hobby |
Used to describe an activity you engage in regularly for pleasure during your free time.
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| pastime |
An activity you often do for enjoyment during your free time. Similar to 'hobby', but might be used to emphasize the aspect of time consumption.
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| interest |
More general term for something that captures your attention or curiosity. It may not necessarily be an activity you frequently do.
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| leisure pursuit |
A formal term often used to describe activities people engage in during their free time for enjoyment. Suitable for written language or formal conversations.
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Examples of usage
- I enjoy painting as a hobby.
- One of my hobbies is gardening.
- She has many hobbies, including reading and cooking.
passion
An activity that one is passionate about and enjoys doing in their free time.
Synonyms
avocation, enthusiasm, obsession.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hobby |
Used to describe a regular activity that someone enjoys doing during their free time.
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| avocation |
Refers to a secondary occupation or activity someone does in addition to their primary job, often for enjoyment.
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| obsession |
Implies an intense preoccupation or fixation on something, often with a negative connotation.
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| enthusiasm |
Describes a strong excitement or interest in a particular subject or activity.
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Examples of usage
- His hobby is playing guitar.
- Cooking has always been her favorite hobby.
- Singing is not just a hobby for him, it's a way of life.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, hobbies reflect personal interests and are essential for relaxation and well-being.
- Certain hobbies like knitting or baking have been passed down through generations, preserving cultural traditions.
Psychology
- Engaging in hobbies can reduce stress and improve mental health by providing a sense of purpose and satisfaction.
- People who regularly participate in hobbies often report higher levels of happiness and fulfillment in their lives.
Social Aspects
- Hobbies often serve as a bonding activity that families and friends can share, enhancing relationships.
- Many communities provide clubs for various hobbies, encouraging social interactions among people with similar interests.
Popular Hobbies
- Some widely enjoyed hobbies include gardening, photography, reading, and crafting, reflecting diverse interests.
- With technology, new hobbies have emerged like gaming and blogging, appealing to younger generations.
Origin of 'hobby'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'hobby' comes from the late Middle Ages, derived from 'hobbyhorse', which referred to a child's toy horse.
- Originally, 'hobby' referred to a small horse, emphasizing a light and enjoyable activity.
The word 'hobby' originated in the 16th century, meaning 'small horse' or 'pony'. It later evolved to refer to a favorite pastime or leisure activity. Hobbies have been an important part of human culture for centuries, providing individuals with a creative outlet and a way to relax and unwind.