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

The self-proclaimed homebodies share that their ideal quality pastime is rewatching “Grey’s Anatomy” for the third time, sitting together in silence while enjoying cookie milkshakes, or spending a weekend away in nature.

From Los Angeles Times

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

Related Words

• amusement
• diversion
• fun
• hobby
• recreation