pastime

American  

[pas-tahym, pahs-] / ˈpæsˌtaɪm, ˈpɑs- /

noun

1. something that serves to make time pass agreeably; a pleasant means of amusement, recreation, or sport.

   to play cards as a pastime.

   Synonyms:

   avocation, diversion, hobby, entertainment

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pastime British  

/ ˈpɑːsˌtaɪm /

noun

1. an activity or entertainment which makes time pass pleasantly

   golf is my favourite pastime

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Etymology

Origin of pastime

1480–90; earlier pas ( s ) e tyme, translation of Middle French passe-temps

Example Sentences

Vast news deserts with no local coverage exist across the country, and independent reporting of any issue, concern, pastime, government action, youth activity or local PTA is nearly impossible to find.

From Salon

He won’t grow up and, as normal people do, be happy not to be included in pastimes that bore him.

From Salon

As messaging and FaceTime become younger generations’ preferred communication methods, phoning friends is an increasingly rare pastime.

From The Wall Street Journal

“People love to shop. It’s the national pastime,” said Sarah Henry, portfolio manager at Logan Capital Management.

From MarketWatch

The competitive pastime has spawned a whole industry of content creators offering weekly tips for anyone looking to gain an edge as they sift through stats and manage transfers.

From BBC

Related Words

• amusement
• diversion
• fun
• hobby
• recreation