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Pastimes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pastimes

[ˈpæs.taɪmz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

enjoyable activities

Pastimes refer to enjoyable activities that people do in their leisure time to relax, have fun, or pursue a hobby. These activities are often considered a way to unwind and take a break from the routine of daily life. They can range from simple hobbies like reading or gardening to more active pursuits like sports or crafting.

Synonyms

hobbies, leisure activities, recreational pursuits.

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Word Description / Examples
pastimes

Typically used to refer to activities that people do to pass the time, often with the implication that they are enjoyed leisurely.

  • One of his pastimes is watching old movies
  • Reading mystery novels is a popular pastime for many people
hobbies

Refers to activities that people regularly do in their free time for pleasure.

  • My hobbies include painting and gardening
  • He has many hobbies, like playing guitar and collecting stamps
leisure activities

Describes activities that people do during their free time to relax and enjoy themselves.

  • Swimming and reading are my favorite leisure activities
  • During weekends, she engages in various leisure activities like hiking and cooking
recreational pursuits

Usually used in a more formal or organized context to describe activities done for relaxation and enjoyment.

  • Camping and mountain biking are some of the recreational pursuits they enjoy
  • The community center offers various recreational pursuits, including tennis and yoga

Examples of usage

  • Reading is one of her favorite pastimes.
  • For many, gardening is a relaxing pastime.
  • His pastimes include painting and hiking.
  • I enjoy cooking as a pastime.
  • Playing musical instruments can be a rewarding pastime.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, common pastimes like music and dance reflect societal values and are often used to strengthen community bonds.
  • Pastimes can vary significantly across different cultures, with some focusing on communal activities, while others emphasize solitary pursuits.
  • Hobbies such as gardening and painting not only provide enjoyment but also have been shown to improve mental health and reduce stress.

Literature

  • Many classic novels integrate the theme of pastimes, exploring how characters engage in leisure activities to escape reality.
  • The concept of pastimes in literature often serves as a reflection of the time period and societal norms, such as the rise of leisure activities during the Industrial Revolution.
  • Authors like Jane Austen used pastimes to reveal character traits and social standing within their narratives.

Psychology

  • Engaging in enjoyable pastimes has been linked to increased happiness and life satisfaction, supporting the importance of leisure in well-being.
  • Studies reveal that hobbies can enhance creativity and improve cognitive function, making them essential for personal development.
  • Pastimes can also foster social connections, contributing to better emotional health by reducing feelings of loneliness.

History

  • Throughout history, pastimes have evolved, from traditional activities like knitting and storytelling to modern-day tech-based hobbies like gaming.
  • In ancient Rome, pastimes often included gladiatorial games and amphitheater performances, showcasing entertainment's roots in society.
  • The shift from agrarian societies to urban living led to the emergence of organized sports and recreational clubs in the 19th century.

Origin of 'pastimes'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pastime' originates from the 15th-century term 'pastyme,' which combined the prefix 'past' meaning 'to spend' and 'time.'
  • Originally, 'pastimes' implied any activity that helped pass the time, focusing on leisure and enjoyment.
  • Over the centuries, the use of the word expanded to include both individual and social activities.

The term 'pastime' originated in the late 15th century, combining 'past' (meaning 'gone by, in time') and 'time.' Originally, it referred to activities that passed the time pleasantly. Over the centuries, the concept of pastimes has evolved to encompass a wide range of leisure activities that people engage in for enjoyment and relaxation.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,883, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.