Tourism

Definition

Tourism refers to the commercial organization and operation of vacations and visits to places of interest, or the practice of traveling for recreation or leisure.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtʊr.ɪ.zəm/
• Respelling: TOOR-ih-zuhm

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtʊə.rɪ.zəm/
• Respelling: TOO-uh-rih-zuhm

Etymology

The word "tourism" originates from the French word "tourisme," derived from "tour," meaning "a journey or circuit," which comes from Old French "tour" (turn). It entered the English language in the early 19th century to describe travel for pleasure or recreation.

Derivatives

• Tourist (noun)
• Touristic (adjective)
• Eco-tourism (noun)
• Overtourism (noun)
• Tourism-related (adjective)

Synonyms

• Travel
• Voyaging
• Excursion

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "tourism" is used to describe activities related to traveling for pleasure, as in "The city depends on tourism for its economy." It also refers to the industry associated with recreational travel, as in "Sustainable tourism is growing in popularity."

Related Terms

• Traveler: A person who journeys from place to place.
• Hospitality: Services provided to travelers and tourists.
• Leisure: Free time used for relaxation or recreation.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The practice of traveling for pleasure: Refers to recreational journeys to various locations.
  • Example: "Tourism is a major source of income for tropical islands."
• The business of attracting, accommodating, and entertaining tourists: Refers to the industry that supports leisure travel.
  • Example: "The government invests heavily in tourism infrastructure."
• Travel to historical or cultural landmarks: Focuses on journeys made to places of significant interest.
  • Example: "Cultural tourism promotes the preservation of heritage sites."