pastime

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

Pastime is a broad word for something you do because it makes free time pleasant. Hobby is narrower: it usually suggests a regular interest that you keep doing and may get better at, such as model building or gardening. Recreation is more formal and often points to active leisure, sports, or activities offered by schools and communities. Diversion often means a brief amusement that helps pass time or takes your mind off something else. You can say chess is Ken's favorite hobby if he studies it seriously, but a crossword on the train is more naturally a pastime or a diversion.

Common collocations

Etymology

Pastime was formed in English from pass and time. It first meant the act of spending time pleasantly, and later came to mean the enjoyable activity itself.