prime time

noun

1

: the time period when the television or radio audience is the largest

also : television shows shown in prime time

2

: the choicest or busiest time

3

: big time sense 2

a pitcher not yet ready for prime time

prime-time

ˈprīm-ˌtīm 

adjective

Examples of prime time in a Sentence

The program is being shown during prime time.

He's the best actor in prime time.

Recent Examples on the Web

None went anywhere, as legislative leaders deemed them not ready for prime time. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026

Overall, in-ovo sexing systems are ready for prime time, Fergus emphasizes. —Christine Ro, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026

Most snakes start breeding in spring after winter dormancy, making summer the prime time to encounter one of several venomous snake species found from western Missouri to Wichita. —Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 10 June 2026

Summer is the prime time for severe storms, including hurricanes on the east and west coasts and tornadoes in the Southern and Midwestern states. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 8 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for prime time

• aforetime
• allozyme
• anytime
• christmastime
• cybercrime
• dinnertime
• guggenheim
• isozyme
• lysozyme
• maritime
• mesenchyme
• overtime

Kids Definition

prime time

noun

: the time in the evening when television has its largest number of viewers