Lounge: meaning, definitions and examples

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lounge

[laʊndʒ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

relaxation area

A lounge is a comfortable room or area in a public place, where people can sit, relax, and socialize.

Synonyms

parlor, reception area, sitting room.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lounge	This term is commonly used in both informal and formal settings. It often refers to a casual living space in a home or a comfortable waiting area in public buildings like hotels and airports. We spent our Sunday afternoon relaxing in the lounge. Please wait in the lounge; the doctor will see you shortly.
sitting room	This term usually describes a more formal living space in a home, often used for receiving guests. It can also be considered somewhat old-fashioned. We entertained our visitors in the sitting room. The sitting room was furnished with antique pieces.
parlor	This word is somewhat old-fashioned and is typically used to describe a formal living room in a home or a specialized commercial space, such as an ice cream parlor or a beauty parlor. The guests were invited into the parlor for tea. We decided to grab a treat at the ice cream parlor.
reception area	This term is primarily used in professional or commercial settings, such as offices, clinics, or hotels, and refers to the space where visitors are greeted and wait. Please have a seat in the reception area; someone will be with you shortly. The reception area was decorated for the holidays.

Examples of usage

I waited for my flight in the airport lounge.
After a long day at work, I like to unwind in the lounge of my house.
The hotel had a cozy lounge with a fireplace.
She sat in the lounge, sipping her coffee and reading a book.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to relax

To lounge means to relax or recline in a comfortable and leisurely way.

Synonyms

chill, recline, relax.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lounge	This word is typically used when someone is resting or sitting in a relaxed, casual way, especially in a comfortable place like a couch or a sun chair. It often implies spending time leisurely without any specific activity. She loves to lounge on the sofa with a good book on weekends. They spent the afternoon lounging by the pool.
relax	A general term used to describe taking time to rest and unwind, reducing stress and tension. It can apply to both physical and mental states and is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. I like to relax with a cup of tea after a long day. The doctor advised him to relax and avoid any strenuous activities.
recline	Primarily used to describe the action of leaning back or lying in a relaxed position, often in a chair that allows backward movement. This term is more formal than 'lounge' or 'chill'. He reclined his seat and closed his eyes for a quick nap. The deck chairs can recline for sunbathing.
chill	This informal term is used when someone is relaxing in a very easy-going manner, often implying a laid-back attitude. It’s also used to suggest calming down or taking things easily. Let's just chill at home and watch some movies tonight. You need to chill and not stress so much about the exam.

Examples of usage

After lunch, he decided to lounge on the sofa for a while.
She enjoys lounging by the pool on weekends.
I plan to lounge on the beach during my vacation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'lounge' comes from the French word 'alonger,' meaning to stretch out or lie down.
Originally, the term referred to a place for resting or reclining, literally reflecting its purpose.
It first appeared in English in the late 16th century, indicating a space to relax.

Architecture

Many modern homes include a lounge area, designed for comfort and socializing.
In public buildings, lounges are often furnished with comfortable seating and soft lighting to create a relaxed atmosphere.
Some historic lounges in hotels or clubs are decorated with art and vintage furniture, reflecting the style of their time.

Popular Culture

The 'lounge' style of music, often smooth and mellow, became popular in the mid-20th century, perfect for relaxation.
Lounge bars, featuring relaxed atmospheres and comfortable seating, became trendy spots for socializing in cities worldwide.
The concept of a 'lounge' often appears in movies, signifying a place where characters unwind and interact outside of plot conflicts.

Psychology

Relaxing in a lounge can reduce stress and promote mental well-being, as comfort plays a significant role in relaxation.
The environment of lounging areas, which are typically informal and inviting, can encourage social connection and reduce anxiety.
Studies show that having a designated lounge space at work can improve employee morale and productivity.

Literature

Lounge settings often serve as key locations in novels, providing a backdrop for character interactions and plot development.
In poetry, lounges might evoke themes of leisure, comfort, and the simplicity of everyday life.
Writers like Ernest Hemingway often used lounge scenes in their works to convey atmosphere and character development.

Translations

Translations of the word "lounge" in other languages:

🇵🇹 salão

🇮🇳 लाउंज

🇩🇪 Lounge

🇮🇩 ruang santai

🇺🇦 вітальня

🇵🇱 salon

🇯🇵 ラウンジ

🇫🇷 salon

🇪🇸 salón

🇹🇷 salon

🇰🇷 라운지

🇸🇦 صالة

🇨🇿 salón

🇸🇰 salón

🇨🇳 休息室

🇸🇮 salon

🇮🇸 setustofa

🇰🇿 қонақ бөлмесі

🇬🇪 ლაუნჯი

🇦🇿 salon

🇲🇽 salón

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,544, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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11541 herring
11542 petrol
11543 deceptive
11544 lounge
11545 juncture
11546 unitary
11547 placenta
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