prime time

noun

1
: the time period when the television or radio audience is the largest
also : television shows shown in prime time
2
: the choicest or busiest time
3
: big time sense 2
a pitcher not yet ready for prime time
prime-time adjective

Examples of prime time in a Sentence

The program is being shown during prime time. He's the best actor in prime time.
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.
The chef has 115 million social followers and has established himself over two decades with prime time shows like Kitchen Nightmares and MasterChef more recently being accompanied by a vibrant social media profile. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 7 Jan. 2026 When the president asked the TV networks for prime time on December 17 to make a speech to the nation, rumors flew that the volatile president was going to announce a land war in Venezuela. Susan Shelley, Oc Register, 4 Jan. 2026 This is prime time for intentional action, organization, and tending to the details that actually move the needle. Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 4 Jan. 2026 November And December Another prime time of year to head to the thrift store is right before the lead up to Thanksgiving and Christmas, Deilus says. Sarah Lyon, Southern Living, 31 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for prime time

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of prime time was in 1947

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Cite this Entry

“Prime time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prime%20time. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

prime time

noun
: the time in the evening when television has its largest number of viewers

More from Merriam-Webster on prime time

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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