nightcap

noun

night·​cap ˈnīt-ˌkap How to pronounce nightcap (audio)
1
: a cloth cap worn with nightclothes
2
: a usually alcoholic drink taken at the end of the day
3
: the final race or contest of a day's sports
especially : the second game of a baseball doubleheader

Examples of nightcap in a Sentence

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.
For a nightcap, have a Negroni (€15) at the moody bar attached to the nearby Palma Riad hotel. Emilio Parra Doiztua, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025 In the evening, he was summoned for a nightcap with Charles and was offered a very good malt whiskey — a glass of Laphroaig. Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 11 Oct. 2025 These contemporary seats look comfortable enough to support winding conversation well after dessert and nightcaps have been served. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 8 Oct. 2025 Naturally, Betty Jo invites Lee back to hers for a nightcap. Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nightcap

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of nightcap was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Nightcap.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nightcap. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

nightcap

noun
night·​cap ˈnīt-ˌkap How to pronounce nightcap (audio)
1
: a cap worn with nightclothes
2
: a drink taken at bedtime
3
: the final race or contest of a day's sports activities

More from Merriam-Webster on nightcap

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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