Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Rest” — 9 Other Ways to Say It
Time to relax, recover, and regain energy after work or activity.
Meanings of Rest — Pick the Sense You Need
Rest has 3 common meanings. The synonyms below are grouped by meaning so you can jump straight to the sense you need.
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Meaning #1
as a noun
Time to relax, recover, and regain energy after work or activity.
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Meaning #2
as a verb
To stop doing something and relax your body or mind.
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Meaning #3
as a noun
What is left over; the part that remains after some is taken or removed.
How to Pronounce Rest
IPA: /rɛst/ Stress: O
One short syllable with /ɛ/ vowel like in 'bed'; final 't' is clear.
3 Synonyms for Rest (Meaning #1 — as a noun)
These synonyms work when you use rest as a noun. Meaning: Time to relax, recover, and regain energy after work or activity.
4 Synonyms for Rest (Meaning #2 — as a verb)
These synonyms work when you use rest as a verb. Meaning: To stop doing something and relax your body or mind.
relax
/rɪˈlæks/To rest and become calm, not worrying or working hard.
Example: After work, I like to relax at home with a cup of tea.
sleep
/sliːp/To rest with your eyes closed at night or during the day.
Example: I sleep eight hours every night.
recover
/rɪˈkʌvər/To get better after being ill, hurt, or having problems; to return to normal condition.
Example: After surgery, it took three weeks for her to recover completely.
3 Synonyms for Rest (Meaning #3 — as a noun)
These synonyms work when you use rest as a noun. Meaning: What is left over; the part that remains after some is taken or removed.
Smart Synonyms for Rest — When to Use Each
sleep
for long periods of unconsciousness at night
break
for short pauses during work or activity
relaxation
for leisure time and stress relief
Antonyms of Rest — Opposite Words
How to Use Rest and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- I need rest after a long day of work. A1
- The doctor advised her to get plenty of rest for recovery. A2
- Athletes require adequate rest between training sessions. B1
- After running, I sat down to rest for a few minutes. A1
- The doctor told her to rest in bed for several days. A1
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Rest
What is another word for "rest"?
Common synonyms for "rest" include: sleep, relaxation, break, relax, recover.
What can I say instead of "rest"?
Try one of these alternatives: sleep, relaxation, break, relax, recover. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "rest" formal or informal?
"rest" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "rest" instead of "sleep"?
Use "rest" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "sleep" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "rest"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "rest" include: work, activity, labor, exercise.