relax: Meaning and Definition of
re•lax
Pronunciation: (ri-laks'), [key]
— v.t.
- to make less tense, rigid, or firm; make lax: to relax the muscles.
- to diminish the force of.
- to slacken or abate, as effort, attention, etc.
- to make less strict or severe, as rules, discipline, etc.: to relax the requirements for a license.
- to release or bring relief from the effects of tension, anxiety, etc.: A short swim always relaxes me.
—v.i.
- to become less tense, rigid, or firm.
- to become less strict or severe; grow milder.
- to reduce or stop work, effort, application, etc., esp. for the sake of rest or recreation.
- to release oneself from inhibition, worry, tension, etc.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.