Definition of Rest (meaning 1 of 3 — noun)
Quick Meaning of Rest
Time to relax, recover, and regain energy after work or activity.
Detailed Definition of Rest
A period of time when you stop working or being active to recover energy and feel relaxed.
How to Pronounce Rest
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One short syllable with /ɛ/ vowel like in 'bed'; final 't' is clear.
Watch out: Sometimes mispronounced /ruːst/ with long vowel; correct is short /ɛ/ like 'bet'.
Other Meanings of Rest
“Rest” has 3 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 2:
#2 Rest as a verb
To stop doing something and relax your body or mind.
rest a moment
#3 Rest as a noun
What is left over; the part that remains after some is taken or removed.
the rest of
Origin and Etymology of Rest
From Old English 'ræst'—a resting place, related to Germanic roots meaning cessation.
How to Use Rest in a Sentence
Each example shows “rest” in the meaning “Time to relax, recover, and regain energy after…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I need rest after a long day of work.”
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“The doctor advised her to get plenty of rest for recovery.”
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“Athletes require adequate rest between training sessions.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Rest
Common Synonyms for Rest
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
Common Collocations with Rest
These phrases pair with “rest” in everyday English:
- get some rest
- take a rest
- rest day
Common Mistakes When Using Rest
Even fluent speakers slip up with “rest”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I need rest sleeping after work.
- ✓ Correct: I need rest after work.
- Why: 'Rest' already implies recovery; 'sleep' is redundant here.
- ✗ Wrong: She rests every days.
- ✓ Correct: She rests every day.
- Why: 'Day' is singular with 'every'; use 'every day', not 'every days'.
Words Confused With Rest
- Rest vs Sleep: Rest is any pause from activity; sleep is unconsciousness at night.
Other Forms of Rest
Frequently Asked Questions About Rest
What is the meaning of "Rest"?
Time to relax, recover, and regain energy after work or activity.
How do you pronounce "Rest"?
The IPA is /rɛst/. One short syllable with /ɛ/ vowel like in 'bed'; final 't' is clear.
What part of speech is "Rest"?
"Rest" is a noun at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Rest"?
Common synonyms include sleep, relaxation, break.
How do you use "Rest" in a sentence?
For example: "I need rest after a long day of work."