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Definition of relax

relax

/rɪˈlæks/
re · lax
Adverb:relaxedly
•
Adjective:relaxed
•
Past Simple:relaxed
•
Past Participle:relaxed
•
Present Participle:relaxing
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relax Lexical Profile

relax Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make or become less tense, anxious, or stressed; to rest from work or engage in an enjoyable activity.

Example

"After a demanding week at the office, she likes to relax by reading in the garden."

2

To cause a muscle, limb, or part of the body to become less rigid, tight, or contracted.

Example

"Take a deep breath and consciously relax your shoulders before beginning the exercise."

3

To make a rule, restriction, or policy less strict or severe.

Example

"The committee voted to relax the dress code during the hot summer months."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for relax
Antonyms
View all antonyms for relax

• Rhymes for relax

• Nearby Words

reinwardtia
relations
relationship
relax
relaxed
relaxing
relay

Word Origin & Etymology

From Late Middle English, borrowed from Latin relaxare ('to loosen, widen, or unbend'), formed from the intensive prefix re- and laxare ('to loosen'), from laxus ('loose').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Relax. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 22, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/relax
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