First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
relax
verb re·lax \ri-ˈlaks\
: to become or to cause (something) to become less tense, tight, or stiff
: to stop feeling nervous or worried
: to spend time resting or doing something enjoyable especially after you have been doing work
Full Definition of RELAX
transitive verb
1
: to make less tense or rigid : slacken <relaxed his grip>
2
: to make less severe or stringent : modify <relax immigration laws>
3
: to deprive of energy, zeal, or strength of purpose
4
: to relieve from nervous tension
5
: to treat (hair) chemically in order to relax curls
intransitive verb
1
: to become lax, weak, or loose : rest
2
: to become less intense or severe <hoped the committee would relax in its opposition>
3
of a muscle or muscle fiber : to become inactive and lengthen
4
: to cast off social restraint, nervous tension, or anxiety <couldn't relax in crowds>
5
: to seek rest or recreation <relax at the seashore>
6
: to relieve constipation
7
: to attain equilibrium following the abrupt removal of some influence (as light, high temperature, or stress)
— re·lax·er noun
See relax defined for English-language learners
See relax defined for kids
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Origin of RELAX
Middle English, from Latin relaxare, from re- + laxare to loosen, from laxus loose — more at slack
Related to RELAX
- Synonyms
- chill, chill out [slang], decompress, de-stress, loosen up, mellow (out), unwind, wind down, hang loose
- Antonyms
- tense (up)
RELAXING Defined for Kids
relax
verb re·lax \ri-ˈlaks\
re·laxedre·lax·ing
Definition of RELAX for Kids
1
: to make or become loose or less tense <Relax your muscles.> <She relaxed her grip on the reins.>
2
: to make or become less severe or strict <Mom relaxed the rules for the summer.>
3
: to become calm and free from stress
4
: to seek rest or enjoyment <You can relax at the beach.>
Medical Dictionary
relax
transitive verb re·lax \ri-ˈlaks\
Medical Definition of RELAX
1
: to slacken or make less tense or rigid <alternately contracting and relaxing their muscles>
2
: to relieve from nervous tension
3
: to relieve from constipation <medications to relax the bowels>
intransitive verb
1
of a muscle or muscle fiber : to return to an inactive or resting state; especially : to become inactive and lengthen
2
: to cast off social restraint, nervous tension, or anxiety <couldn't relax in crowds>
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