There are 53,100 search results on Bing for the misspelling 'Passtime'. 'Passtime' ranks in the top 110 of most common errors caught by TripleChecker, with at least 101 websites containing this mistake.¹
'Pastime' is primarily a noun. It refers to an activity that someone engages in for enjoyment and leisure during their free time. Examples include hobbies, sports, and recreational activities.
Pastime
The word 'pastime' originates from the early 16th century, combining 'pass' from the Middle English 'passen' (to spend time) and 'time'. It originally referred to an activity that allows one to pass the time pleasantly.
The word "pastime" is pronounced as /ˈpæstaɪm/. It rhymes with "time" and has two syllables.
The word 'pastime' can be used in a sentence such as, "Reading novels is her favorite pastime." When using 'pastime,' it is important to ensure it is spelled correctly, as it can sometimes be mistakenly spelled as 'pass time,' which refers to the act of making time pass rather than a specific activity that one enjoys doing in their leisure time. Proper context is also essential to convey that it refers to a hobby or activity done for enjoyment rather than a mere passing of time.