diary

noun

di·​a·​ry ˈdī-(ə-)rē 

plural diaries

1

: a record of events, transactions, or observations kept daily or at frequent intervals : journal

especially : a daily record of personal activities, reflections, or feelings

2

: a book intended or used for a diary

Synonyms of diary

• journal

Examples of diary in a Sentence

has diligently kept a diary since she was 15

Recent Examples on the Web

Co-directed by Alexandra Orton, the film combines Maddox’s personal video diaries, therapy sessions, and exclusive interviews while descending into Manson’s early background and sensationalized media persona as a monster. — Jake Kring-Schreifels, Time, 22 July 2026

The findings, published in the journal NPJ Biological Timing and Sleep, were based on more than 500 days of data collected from 89 adults who wore light sensors and sleep trackers while keeping daily sleep diaries. — Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 19 July 2026

Hathaway’s personal diaries were even seized by the FBI to help in their case against the entrepreneur, who was released in 2012 and deported to Italy. — Katie Schultz, Architectural Digest, 16 July 2026

Clear your diary, put the kick-off time on the calendar and forget about any thoughts of sitting down to watch the beautiful game. — Stuart James, New York Times, 12 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin diarium, from dies day — more at deity

First Known Use

1581, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing diary

• keep a diary

Rhymes for diary

• fiery
• friary
• priory

Kids Definition

diary

noun

di·​a·​ry ˈdī-(ə-)rē 

plural diaries

: a daily record especially of personal experiences and thoughts

also : a book for keeping such a record

Etymology

from Latin diarium "a record of business dealings or activities during the day," from dies "day" — related to meridian, sunday see Word History at sunday