English Reference
Noun

pastime

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈpæsˌtaɪm/ UK /pˈɑːstaɪm/ pas·time UK spelling pastime's, pastime's

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.


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'.

Backyard bird feeding is one of our country’s most popular pastimes.

ScienceDaily· 24 Aug 2026

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.

This entry
Origin frm passetemps
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated