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daylight
/ˈdeɪlaɪt/
natural light during the day
She woke up at dawn to see the daylight streaming through the window.
She woke up early to enjoy the natural light coming into her room.
neutral
The natural light of the sun during the daytime.
The plants need plenty of daylight to grow.
Sunlight is essential for the healthy growth of plants.
The store opens at daylight to catch early shoppers.
The store opens early in the morning to attract customers who shop at sunrise.
Often used in contrast to artificial light or nighttime.
Collocations
daylight robberysomething extremely overpriced or unfairin broad daylightopenly or publicly, without concealment
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Collocation: 'in broad daylight'
This phrase describes something happening openly and obviously, often implying a lack of secrecy. Example: 'The theft occurred in broad daylight, with witnesses nearby.'
Gold Rule
Literal vs. Figurative Meaning
Distinguish between the literal meaning (natural light) and figurative uses (e.g., 'daylight robbery' meaning unfair pricing).
Word Origin
From Middle English 'day' + 'light', compounded in the 14th century. 'Day' derives from Old English 'dæg', while 'light' comes from Old English 'lēoht'.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts (e.g., 'seeing the light' in a metaphorical sense).
Word Breakdown
day
the time between sunrise and sunset
rootlight
illumination or brightness
rootEnglish Dictionary