'relaxation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'relaxatio,' where 're-' meant 'again' and 'laxare' meant 'to loosen.'

'relaxatio' transformed into the Old French word 'relaxacion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'relaxation' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'loosening or slackening,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'state of being free from tension.'