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nighttime
/ˈnaɪt.taɪm/
the period of darkness between sunset and sunrise
The stars are visible during nighttime.
Nighttime is when the sky is dark and stars can be seen.
general
the time of day when it is dark because the sun is below the horizon
Many animals are more active at nighttime.
Some creatures prefer to hunt or move around when it's dark.
Often used to contrast with daytime or to describe activities that occur after sunset.
Collocations
nighttime routinea set of activities done regularly at nightnighttime skythe sky as seen during the nightnighttime temperaturethe temperature during the night
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use 'nighttime' when emphasizing the darkness or activities that occur after sunset, rather than just saying 'night.' For example, 'nighttime sky' sounds more poetic than 'night sky.'
Gold Rule
Capitalization Rule
'Nighttime' is typically lowercase unless it starts a sentence or is part of a title.
Word Origin
From 'night' (Old English 'niht') + 'time' (Old English 'tīma'). The compound form 'nighttime' emerged in Middle English to emphasize the period of darkness.
Usage Notes
Often used in contexts where the darkness of night is relevant, such as astronomy, security, or nocturnal activities. Can also refer to a specific time of night, e.g., 'late nighttime.'
Word Breakdown
night
the period of darkness
roottime
a specific period or duration
rootEnglish Dictionary