Synonyms of nocturnal

nocturnal

adjective

näk-ˈtər-nᵊl 

as in night

of, relating to, or occurring in the night

he bought a new telescope so he could pursue his favorite nocturnal hobby of astronomy

Synonyms & Similar Words

• night
• midnight
• nighttime
• late
• nightly
• overnight

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• daily
• diurnal
• noon

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of nocturnal

While rain chances remain slim to none on Friday, some computer models indicate there could be some nocturnal storms Friday night into early Saturday as well as Saturday night into early Sunday. — Kansas City Star, 14 July 2026

During a stay, guests can walk through the property’s jungle trails, kayak on the water, learn about the reserve's nocturnal wildlife with the resident biologist, or make beadwork with a Wixárika artisan. — Meagan Drillinger, Travel + Leisure, 13 July 2026

For the most part, though, the nocturnal creatures stay out of humans’ sight. — Ariane Lange, Sacbee.com, 2 July 2026

People should not approach wild animals that appear sick, injured, or dead, including nocturnal species such as bats and raccoons that are active during daylight hours. — Kelli Arseneau, USA Today, 1 July 2026