rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryRoot: laxare
Latin

laxare

loosen or relax

Forms

  • laxare
  • laxat- — The form used for completed action.

Origin

Formed from Latin laxus, “loose.”

Note

Loosening can mean reducing tension, restraint, or strictness.

5 / 8
An East Asian woman rests peacefully in a hammock.
noun

relaxation

ree-lak-SAY-shun/ˌriːlækˈseɪʃn/

The easing of tension toward a less strained state.

Etymology
reLatinback, again; restoration or reversal
+laxLatinloosen or relax
+ationLatinan action, process, or result

The action noun turns loosening into an easing or mitigation. Its uses for relief from burdens, work, and ordinary cares connect that physical image with becoming less tense.

Full entry

Related word entries