Definition of avocationnext
as in hobby
an activity outside of one's regular occupation that is engaged in primarily for pleasure photography is merely an avocation for me—I've never tried to make money off of it

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of avocation Retired from her long vocation as a research chemist, Schafer, at 81, remains on the job with her avocations. — Patricia Gallagher Newberry, Cincinnati Enquirer, 13 May 2025 These avocations can take many shapes—traveling, golf, time with family, snowboarding, knitting, hunting, gardening, fishing, church choir, college football, crossword puzzles, theater, cycling, and walking. — Wes Moss, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024 What began as an avocation turned into a serious occupation, as Fox Solomon turned to documenting the remnants of segregation visible in Chattanooga and across the South. — Christina Cacouris, The New Yorker, 24 Sep. 2024 Dramatically groaning and moaning about the heat in the summer is my avocation. — Sherry Kuehl, Kansas City Star, 10 July 2024 See All Example Sentences for avocation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for avocation
Noun
  • Cleaning graves grew in popularity during the pandemic The trend was particularly popular during the COVID-19 pandemic as people searched for safe hobbies, finding connections over death during a pandemic.
    — Kimberlee Kruesi, Fortune, 22 Oct. 2026
  • His hobbies consist of playing video games and golf with some of his teammates from the Red Bulls, but soccer is never far from his mind.
    — Ben Church, CNN Money, 22 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Not every worthwhile pursuit needs to become productive, profitable, or impressive.
    — Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 23 Oct. 2026
  • Kikuchi makes Haru’s occasionally mortifying romantic pursuit both funny and affecting, embracing the character’s impulsive, sometimes ridiculous behavior without diminishing the depth of her loss.
    — Lisa Wong Macabasco, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Smith’s plate has been full in her decades working in professional sports.
    — Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Other sports like rugby, basketball, cycling and tennis also are popular.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • According to its governing body, the International Nordic Walking Federation (INWA), which was founded in 2000, Nordic walking is now practised in over 40 countries for health, fitness, recreation, social connection, and competitive sport.
    — Lola Akinmade, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2026
  • Each ring has roughly 800 diamonds and a recreation of the world's most famous arena.
    — Ryan Morik OutKick, FOXNews.com, 23 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Avocation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/avocation. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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