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

The 15-year-old Ghanaian immigrant shot to death on his way to his Bronx school recently wrote in his diary about his determination to continue his studies and find success in America. — Julian Roberts-Grmela, New York Daily News, 1 Nov. 2026

So much so, in fact, that the couple initially set out to be collaborators, filling their diaries with friendly coffees and gigs over the next couple of months. — Daniel Rodgers, Vogue, 28 Oct. 2026

Writing, the Other Life, a volume of her letters, interviews, previously unpublished diaries, and essays about her literary and political contributions, is now available in English. — Jasmine Vojdani, Vulture, 27 Oct. 2026

What emerges is a sweet tribute to Eleanor, whose observations from the time, written in her diary, are read in voice-over by Diane Lane. — Daniel D'addario, Variety, 23 Oct. 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