hobby

1 of 2

noun (1)

hob·​by ˈhä-bē How to pronounce hobby (audio)
plural hobbies
: a small Old World falcon (Falco subbuteo) that is dark blue above and white below with dark streaking on the breast

hobby

2 of 2

noun (2)

plural hobbies
: a pursuit outside one's regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation
Writing is just a hobby of his.
Her hobbies include gardening and bird-watching.
hobbyist noun

Examples of hobby in a Sentence

Noun (2) his ranch is just a weekend hobby—he makes his real money as an investment banker
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
When assembling Easter baskets, consider the recipient's hobbies, favorite treats and practical needs. Jené Luciani Sena, FOXNews.com, 14 Apr. 2025 Kids might fall behind on schoolwork; adults could become distracted during the workday or overspend on supplies related to their hobby. Angela Haupt, Time, 14 Apr. 2025 When a relationship ends, diverting one’s attention through engaging activities (like hobbies, fitness or work) allows the mind to recalibrate. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025 As more people hope to take back control of their time and attention, digital detox clubs - groups of people meeting up without phones to reconnect with nature, practice hobbies or just talk - are meeting across the world, from New York City to Seoul. Andrew Mambo, NPR, 9 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hobby

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Middle English hoby, from Anglo-French hobel, hobé

Noun (2)

short for hobbyhorse

First Known Use

Noun (1)

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1816, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hobby was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hobby.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hobby. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

hobby

noun
hob·​by
ˈhäb-ē
plural hobbies
: an interest or activity to which a person devotes time for pleasure
hobbyist
-ē-əst
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on hobby

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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