nighttime

noun

night·​time ˈnīt-ˌtīm 

often attributive

: the time from dusk to dawn

Synonyms of nighttime

• night

Examples of nighttime in a Sentence

The animal hunts in the nighttime.

before electricity, gas lamps were used for illumination during the nighttime

Recent Examples on the Web

As dusk yielded to nighttime, DJ and saxophonist GRiZ brought his signature electronic funk in a lively performance that featured a horn section, guest singers and rapper Prob Cause. — Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2026

Lights that shine on dark pathways are needed to enjoy summertime well into the nighttime. — Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 27 June 2026

The extended opening hours and nighttime lighting offer visitors a chance to experience the cultural heritage of Türkiye in a quieter and more atmospheric setting that isn’t as easily achieved during peak hours throughout the day, while also supporting more sustainable tourism overall. — Kaitlyn McInnis, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026

Coors Field will launch fireworks on Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, following the nighttime Colorado Rockies home games against the San Francisco Giants. — John Wenzel, Denver Post, 25 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for nighttime

• airtime
• bedtime
• daytime
• downtime
• enzyme
• halftime
• lifetime
• longtime
• lunchtime
• mealtime
• meantime
• noontime

Kids Definition

nighttime

noun

night·​time ˈnīt-ˌtīm 

: the time from dusk to dawn

nighttime adjective

Legal Definition

nighttime

noun

night·​time

1

: the time from dusk to dawn

2

: a statutorily set period usually beginning shortly after dusk and ending shortly after dawn