avocation
UK: ˌævəˈkeɪʃən | US: ˌævoʊˈkeɪʃən
n. a hobby or minor occupation, pursued for enjoyment rather than as a main profession
n. (archaic) a distraction or diversion from one’s primary calling
Derived from Latin "avocatio" (a calling away), the word originally implied a distraction from one’s primary duty (e.g., a religious or professional calling). Over time, it softened to mean a secondary pursuit done for pleasure, contrasting with "vocation" (main profession). The shift reflects societal changes valuing leisure activities.
Gardening became her favorite avocation after retirement.
His avocation as a painter balanced his demanding career in law.
The term "avocation" subtly distinguishes hobbies from paid work.
She found solace in the avocation of birdwatching.
Historically, philosophers warned against avocations distracting from higher purposes.