Word
pastime
Phoneticspas·time, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈpæsˌtaɪm/
UK/pˈɑːstaɪm/
Countable noun
Definition
n. an activity that you do for fun when you are not working. It is a hobby or something you enjoy doing in your free time.
n. an activity done regularly for enjoyment rather than work; a hobby or diversion.
Examples
“Reading is a popular pastime for people of all ages.”
“In the summer months, gardening becomes a favorite pastime for many residents in this neighborhood.”
“While digital gaming has become a dominant modern pastime, traditional board games have seen a significant resurgence among adults seeking more tactile social interactions.”
Examples
simple
“Reading is a popular pastime for people of all ages.”
contextual
“In the summer months, gardening becomes a favorite pastime for many residents in this neighborhood.”
complex
“While digital gaming has become a dominant modern pastime, traditional board games have seen a significant resurgence among adults seeking more tactile social interactions.”
Usage
Often used with the adjective 'favorite' or 'popular'.
Real-World Examples
“Maybe your favorite pastime is playing a musical instrument or going on a hike.” “Backyard bird feeding is one of our country’s most popular pastimes.” “Scavenging for wild algae along Finistère's rocky coast has been a natural pastime in this staunchly seafaring part of the world since time immemorial.” Etymology
From earlier passtime, pass-time, from Middle English passe tyme, passetyme, calque of Middle French passetemps.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/pastime