WordGarden.iorecreational
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /rˌɛkriːˈeɪʃənəl/
US
- /ˌrɛkriˈeɪʃənəl/
Meanings
Adjective
relating to leisure or activity done for enjoyment rather than necessity
relating to nonmedical intoxicant use, as in recreational drug use
Beyond the definition
Something recreational is related to enjoyable activities done for pleasure and relaxation, things you do in your free time rather than for work or duty. Think of it as the kind of thing you choose to do because it is fun. A recreational activity might be hiking, playing a sport, reading a book, or even building a model airplane.
The word comes from "recreate," which originally meant to refresh or renew yourself. So recreational pursuits are about recharging your batteries and enjoying life outside your daily routine. You would not describe brushing your teeth as recreational, but you would describe going bowling with friends that way. It is also often used in phrases like "recreational vehicle" (RV), a vehicle designed for leisure travel and living.
The word "recreational" describes activities pursued for enjoyment and relaxation, rather than for work or necessity. It is about taking time to refresh your mind and body through pleasurable experiences. For example: "Swimming is a popular recreational activity," or "The park offers many recreational opportunities."
Recreational pursuits can be anything from individual hobbies like painting or gardening to group activities like team sports or hiking with friends. They are often associated with leisure time, vacations, and personal interests. A "recreational facility" might include places like a swimming pool, bowling alley, or community center—environments specifically designed for fun and social relaxation.
The term can also describe items used in these activities. For instance, "recreational drugs" (though this usage carries serious legal and health connotations) refers to substances used for pleasure rather than for medical purposes. Similarly, a "recreational vehicle" (RV) is a motorized vehicle or trailer designed for leisure travel, camping, and seasonal use.
While many activities can be both work and recreation, like photography, cooking, or writing, something is considered recreational when the main goal is personal enjoyment rather than productivity or obligation. Whether you are pursuing a hobby, exploring nature, or simply relaxing with friends, if it is done for the sake of fun, it is likely recreational.
Examples
- 1
Sports league
She joined a recreational volleyball league after work.
- 2
Family activities
The park offers swimming, hiking, and other recreational activities for families.
- 3
Public land
This part of the forest is open for recreational use, but camping is not allowed.
- Phrasefor recreational use
for fun or leisure, not for work or business
- 4
Cannabis law
The state now allows cannabis to be sold for recreational use as well as medical use.
- Domain
in cannabis laws, recreational use contrasts with medical use
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Travel vehicle
They rented a recreational vehicle for their trip across the country.
- Phraserecreational vehicle
a large vehicle used for travel and sleeping, often called an RV
See also
Similar
- leisure
- for fun
- avocational
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- recreational activities
- recreational sports
- recreational use
- recreational vehicle
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- recreationaladjective