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

Starting a cloud diary or journal is easy and could be a fun project for yourself or your family. —Newsroom Meteorologist, Austin American Statesman, 24 Feb. 2026

Her shell-diary expresses her awareness of time’s passage and her anticipation of a future life. —Literary Hub, 23 Feb. 2026

His diaries have been edited for clarity and length, as told to senior writer Michael Russo. —Michael Russo, New York Times, 21 Feb. 2026

Interiors here draw from a range of cultural aesthetics, incorporating design elements from around the world as a reflection of the owner's varied travel diaries. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Feb. 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