# sauna

/ˈsɔnə/ (US) · /sˈɔːnɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sauna
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a small room or building that is very hot, where people sit to sweat and relax. It often uses steam or dry heat from hot stones.

For teachers: a small room or enclosure designed for heat-based relaxation and therapy, typically using steam or dry heat to induce perspiration.

## Examples

- We spent twenty minutes in the sauna after our workout.
- Many hotels in Scandinavia provide a private sauna for guests to use during the cold winter months.
- The traditional Finnish sauna experience involves alternating between intense heat and a quick plunge into cold water to stimulate circulation and promote physical recovery.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the verb 'to have' or 'to go in'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.