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

By Ryan Spencer, Summit Daily As millions of birds start to head south for the winter, Coloradans are turning off outdoor lights to help darken the path for these nocturnal migrators. — The Summit Daily, Denver Post, 26 Aug. 2026

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department even specifically promotes nighttime hog hunting, noting that the animals become increasingly nocturnal during the hot summer months. — Amber Harding Outkick, FOXNews.com, 24 Aug. 2026

Sometimes called honey bears, kinkajous are nocturnal and live in trees. — Amy McDaniel, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 21 Aug. 2026

Instead, opt for a dimmer yellow light, or—even better—a red light that nocturnal insects can’t see. — Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 13 Aug. 2026