Meaning

(obsolete) A calling away; a diversion..

Definitions by Sense

1. (obsolete) A calling away; a diversion.
2. A hobby or recreational or leisure pursuit.
3. That which calls one away from one's regular employment or vocation.
4. Pursuits; duties; affairs which occupy one's time; usual employment; vocation.
5. The calling of a case from an inferior to a superior court.

Example Sentences

But though she could neither sleep nor rest in her bed, yet, having no avocation from it, she was found there by her father at his return from Allworthy's, which was not till past ten o'clock in the morning.

Gardening is a wholesome avocation that encourages appreciation for nature and concern for the preservation and enhancement of our environment.

But yield who will to their separation, My object in living is to unite My avocation and my vocation As my two eyes make one in sight.

November 1, 1711, William King, Letter to Jonathan Swift I have several things on the anvil, and near finished, that perhaps might be useful, if published: but the continual avocation by business, the impositions on me by impertinent visits, and the uneasiness of writing, which grows more intolerable to me every day, I doubt, will prevent my going any farther.

[W]hen his other more momentous Avocations of Pedantry and Pedagogiſm vvill give him an Interval from VVrath and Contention, he vvill ſet apart a Moment to conſider humane Nature Deviliz'd, and give us a Mathematical Anatomical Deſcription of it; […]

I have been received with unsurpassable politeness, delicacy, sweet temper, hospitality, consideration, and with unsurpassable respect for the privacy daily enforced upon me by the nature of my avocation here and the state of my health.

Word Forms

• avocations

Synonyms for avocation

Related Words

When Should You Use Avocation?

Use avocation when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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