puhkus

Puhkus is an Estonian noun meaning rest, leisure, or a period of leave from work. It covers both everyday rest—times spent relaxing or recovering energy—and longer vacations away from daily duties. The concept is central to discussions of well-being, work-life balance, and leisure in Estonian culture.

Linguistically, puhkus is derived from the Estonian verb puhkama, meaning to rest. The noun denotes the state of rest or the period of time set aside for rest, including holidays and vacations. The term can be used in multiple contexts to indicate either a brief pause or a longer break from work.

Usage and context vary from daily language to policy discussions. In everyday speech, puhkus can refer to a short rest or a planned break, while in formal contexts it often denotes annual leave or public holidays that shape when people take time off. In Estonian life, summer vacations, long weekends, and school holidays frequently provide opportunities for puhkus, and the concept also appears in travel, leisure, and wellness contexts.