bedtime

noun

bed·​time ˈbed-ˌtīm How to pronounce bedtime (audio)
: a time for going to bed

Examples of bedtime in a Sentence

The children are still up? It's way past their bedtimes.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Having a bedtime ritual can also improve sleep consistency. Alexa Mikhail, Flow Space, 4 Feb. 2026 Reducing barriers to sleep, such as late-night screen use, noise, light, caffeine, or work bleeding into bedtime. Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 3 Feb. 2026 Because caffeine stays in your system for so long, it's recommended to avoid drinking caffeinated drinks, like coffee, before bedtime. Jillian Kubala, Health, 30 Jan. 2026 The evening chronotype was characterized by a late bedtime and peak activity later in the day, while a morning chronotype had an earlier bedtime and was most active in the morning. Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bedtime

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bedtime was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Bedtime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bedtime. Accessed 12 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

bedtime

noun
bed·​time ˈbed-ˌtīm How to pronounce bedtime (audio)
: time to go to bed
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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