relax

verb Etymology: Middle English, from Latin relaxare, from re- + laxare to loosen, from laxus loose — more at slack Date: 15th century transitive verb 1. to make less tense or rigid ; slacken <

relaxed his grip

> 2. to make less severe or stringent ; modify <

relax immigration laws

> 3. to deprive of energy, zeal, or strength of purpose 4. to relieve from nervous tension 5. to treat (hair) chemically in order to relax curls intransitive verb 1. to become lax, weak, or loose ; rest 2. to become less intense or severe <

hoped the committee would relax in its opposition

> 3. of a muscle or muscle fiber to become inactive and lengthen 4. to cast off social restraint, nervous tension, or anxiety <

couldn't relax in crowds

> 5. to seek rest or recreation <

relax at the seashore

> 6. to relieve constipation 7. to attain equilibrium following the abrupt removal of some influence (as light, high temperature, or stress) • relaxer noun