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

Explanation

A pastime is any hobby or activity that you do to pass the time. Usually, people enjoy their pastimes. When baseball was more popular, it was called the "national pastime," because so many people enjoyed watching or playing it. Baseball is still a major pastime, as are many other sports. Other pastimes include listening to music, playing music, watching TV, playing video games, playing with your dog, and any kind of hobby. Whenever you're awake and not working, you're probably enjoying a pastime.

Example Sentences

With the rise of junk journaling content on social media, the once solo pastime has turned into a lively social scene.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 23, 2026

In the premier international showcase for America’s pastime, the U.S. has only won the final once.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

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 • Feb. 6, 2026

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 • Jan. 6, 2026

Still, I knew of families who did read to one another as a regular pastime; perhaps it was not so strange.

From "Z for Zachariah" by Robert C. O’Brien

Related Words

• amusement
• diversion
• fun
• hobby
• recreation