recreational
rek-ree-AY-shuh-nuhl
/ˌrekriˈeɪʃənl/
Relating to or denoting activity done for enjoyment during non-working time.
Applies to sports, hobbies, and leisure pursuits that refresh mind and body.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'recreare' ('re-' again + 'creare' to create), literally meaning 'to re-create oneself' through rest and refreshing activities after hard work.
Word relationships
- leisure: Refers to free time itself, while recreational refers to active pursuits done during that time.
- vocational: Relating to employment or professional work.
Commonly confused with
- essential: Essential relates to vital functional needs; recreational relates to leisure.
Word family
- recreation (noun): Activity done for enjoyment in free time.
- recreate (verb): To take part in leisure activities.
Collocations
- recreational facilities
- recreational activities
- recreational park
- recreational area
Example sentences
- "The municipality built expanded recreational spaces, including tennis courts and sports fields." Civic development
Memory hook
RECREATIONAL activities RE-CREATE your energy. Recreational = Done for leisure and fun.
When not to use
Do not apply to mandatory occupational or commercial job tasks.
Fun facts
- In Middle English, 'recreation' was originally used as a medical term for recovering health after illness.
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