lébu

Lõbu is an Estonian noun meaning amusement, entertainment, or pleasure. It refers to activities, events, or states that bring joy, recreation, or merriment. In everyday language it can describe leisure time, social gatherings, or cultural programming, and it is common in both informal speech and formal writing.

Etymology and related forms: It is linked to the adjective lõbus, meaning cheerful or merry. Verbs such as lõbustama mean to amuse or entertain. Nouns include lõbustus (amusement or entertainment facility) and lõbuõhtu (an evening of entertainment). In modern usage, compounds like lõbustuspark (amusement park) demonstrate productive word formation from the same stem.

Usage and nuance: Lõbu often refers to pleasant diversions, hobbies, or other sources of enjoyment, but can also encompass general mood or atmosphere of merrymaking. It appears in cultural discussions about leisure, tourism, or theatre programs. Example: "Kinos korraldatakse iga kuu lõbuõhtuid." This usage can appear in both casual and more formal contexts, where the focus is on sociable activity and entertainment.