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.
This month is prime time to embrace bright, bold colors, top nail trends, and romantic themes. Rebecca Norris, InStyle, 20 Jan. 2026 This is prime time for lunar viewing, with shadows from mountains and craters stretched dramatically close to the terminator — the line between lunar night and day. Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 19 Jan. 2026 When to Go The prime time to ski Heavenly runs from late January through early April, with February and March offering the best conditions. Abby Price, Travel + Leisure, 19 Jan. 2026 The time for West Coast events has been advanced three hours so it can be televised in prime time on the East Coast. Bill Center, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Jan. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Prime time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prime%20time. Accessed 25 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!