Definition

Noun: The period of darkness between sunset and sunrise; the time when the sun is below the horizon and it is dark outside.

Usage

"Nighttime" is used to refer to the dark hours of the day. It is often used to describe activities, conditions, or characteristics specific to this period. It functions as a noun and is typically used in a general sense.

Examples

• As a noun:
  • The city looks beautiful at nighttime.
  • Animals like owls are active during the nighttime.
  • It's important to have good lighting for safety at nighttime.

Advanced Usage

• "the dead of nighttime": A literary phrase emphasizing the deepest, quietest part of the night.
  • He woke up in the dead of nighttime to a strange sound.

Variants and Related Words

• Night (noun): A more common and general synonym for the period of darkness. ("I slept well last night.")
• Nocturnal (adj): Describing something active or happening at night. ("Bats are nocturnal creatures.")

Synonyms

• Night
• Darkness (when referring to the period)
• Nightfall (specifically the beginning of the night)

Antonyms

• Daytime
• Daylight

Related Phrases

• Nighttime routine: A sequence of activities done regularly before going to bed.
  • Her nighttime routine includes reading a book.
• Night and day: An idiom meaning completely different or all the time.
  • His attitude has changed night and day since he got the job. (Note: This idiom uses "night" and "day" together, not the single word "nighttime").

Noun

1. the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside