[n] the act of making less strict
[n] a method of solving simultaneous equations by guessing a solution and then reducing the errors that result by successive approximations until all the errors are less than some specified amount
[n] freedom from activity (work or strain or responsibility); "took his repose by the swimming pool"
[n] an occurrence of control or strength weakening; "the relaxation of requirements"; "the loosening of his grip"; "the slackening of the wind"
[n] a state of refreshing tranquility
[n] (physics) the exponential return of a system to equilibrium after a disturbance
[n] (physiology) the gradual lengthening of inactive muscle or muscle fibers