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.
That’s because watching this match, especially for those on the East Coast, will probably require you to stay awake way past your bedtime on a school night. Ben Church, CNN Money, 16 June 2026 Sleep, meditation and slow-living gear The Hatch Restore 3 Sunrise Alarm Clock ($169) mimics a real sunrise to wake you gently, plays nature sounds at bedtime and runs from an app meaning your phone can stay out of the bedroom. Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 15 June 2026 Some of these adjustments can include parents encouraging earlier and consistent bedtimes, reducing their child's screen time before bed, having kids be physically active and creating a calm sleep environment. Lexi Lane, PEOPLE, 14 June 2026 Daytime exposure supports the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, while too much blue light at night, such as from a tablet or e-reader at bedtime, can disrupt sleep. Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 13 June 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 18 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

bedtime

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