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

ˈprīm-ˌtīm 

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

Fox News, which often draws more viewers in prime time than some broadcast networks, saw its October audience levels drop 28% compared to a year ago, according to Nielsen. — Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2026

Their shooting also ensured that the WNBA’s championship would be decided in prime time. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 29 Oct. 2026

The last time the Carolina Panthers were on prime time — against an NFC North opponent, no less — everything went impressively well. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 29 Oct. 2026

Fall, when gardeners in climates with cold winters put their gardens to rest, is prime time for mulching. — Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 28 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for prime time

• aforetime
• allozyme
• anytime
• christmastime
• cybercrime
• dinnertime
• guggenheim
• isozyme
• lysozyme
• maritime
• mesenchyme
• overtime

Kids Definition

prime time

noun

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