non-recreational
|non-rec-re-a-tion-al|
🇺🇸
/ˌnɑn.rɛkriˈeɪʃənəl/
🇬🇧
/ˌnɒn.rɛkrɪˈeɪʃ(ə)nəl/
not for leisure
Etymology
'non-recreational' originates from Modern English, formed by the negative prefix 'non-' (meaning 'not') plus 'recreational' (from 'recreation').
'recreational' comes from Middle English 'recreacioun' / Middle French 'recreation', ultimately from Latin 'recreatio' (from 'recreare'); the adjective 'recreational' developed from the noun 'recreation', and 'non-' was prefixed in Modern English to create 'non-recreational'.
Initially, Latin 'recreare' meant 'to restore' or 'refresh'; over time 'recreation' came to mean 'refreshment by means of enjoyable activity' and 'recreational' = 'for leisure'; 'non-recreational' therefore evolved to mean 'not for leisure'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not intended for recreation or leisure; serving a practical, utilitarian, or work-related purpose rather than for enjoyment.
The park zoning now separates recreational and non-recreational areas.
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Adjective 2
in regulatory or commercial contexts: activities or uses that are undertaken for business, commercial, or occupational reasons rather than for pleasure.
The permit distinguishes between recreational and non-recreational fishing operations.
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Last updated: 2026/01/05 06:55