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Leisurely Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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leisurely

[ˈliːʒərli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

taking place in a relaxed manner

Characterized by unhurried ease. Without haste; taking plenty of time.

Synonyms

easy-going, relaxed, unhurried, unrushed.

Examples of usage

  • He strolled leisurely through the park.
  • We enjoyed a leisurely breakfast on the terrace.
  • She read the newspaper leisurely, savoring each article.
  • The leisurely pace of life in the countryside was a welcome change.
  • I prefer to travel at a leisurely pace, enjoying the scenery along the way.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, leisure is associated with important aspects of life, such as relaxation and family time, playing a crucial role in mental health.
  • The concept of leisurely lifestyles is often celebrated in literature and film, depicting characters who enjoy life at a slower pace.
  • Countries like Italy and France are known for their leisurely dining experiences, where meals are savored over several hours.

Psychology

  • Leisure activities are linked to reduced stress and improved mental well-being, allowing individuals to recharge.
  • Engaging in leisurely pursuits can boost creativity, as the mind is free to wander and explore new ideas.
  • Research shows that communities with more leisure opportunities report higher levels of happiness.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'lazy Sunday' refers to a leisurely day often characterized by relaxation, popularized in various songs and movies.
  • In various sitcoms, leisurely weekends often serve as the backdrop for humorous or heartwarming episodes.
  • Leisureliness is a recurring theme in famous artworks like Impressionist paintings, capturing the beauty of unhurried moments.

Literature

  • Classic literature often romanticizes leisurely strolls through nature, highlighting the contrast between nature and the chaos of city life.
  • In novels, leisurely dialogue between characters serves to deepen relationships and develop the narrative without rushing.
  • In poetry, leisurely themes convey a sense of peace and reflection, inviting readers to contemplate the beauty of existence.

Origin of 'leisurely'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Middle English 'leisureli', which comes from the Old French word 'leisir', meaning 'pleasure, ease'.
  • The root of 'leisurely' can be traced back to Latin 'licere', which means 'to be permitted' or 'to be free'.
  • In the 15th century, the meaning began to shift towards enjoying life without hurry.

The word 'leisurely' originated from the Middle English word 'leiserly', which comes from the Old French 'leisir', meaning 'permission' or 'opportunity'. The sense of 'unhurried' or 'relaxed' was derived from the idea of having the leisure or freedom to do something without rush.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,695, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.