Definition

Noun: * The period of highest demand and activity: "Peak season" refers to the specific time of year when a particular activity, industry, or location experiences its maximum level of business, visitors, or usage. This period is characterized by the highest prices, largest crowds, and greatest demand for services.

Usage

"Peak season" is used to describe the busiest and most commercially active period for tourism, retail, agriculture, or other seasonal industries. It contrasts with "off-season" or "low season."

Examples

• Noun:
  • Hotel prices double during the peak season for summer vacations.
  • The ski resort is fully booked throughout the winter peak season.
  • Retailers hire extra staff in anticipation of the holiday peak season.

Advanced Usage

• "to be in peak season": to be currently experiencing the period of highest activity.
  • The coastal town is in peak season right now, so the beaches are very crowded.
• "peak season rates/surcharges": the higher prices charged during the busiest period.
  • Be aware that airlines apply peak season surcharges in December.

Variants and Related Words

• High season (noun): A direct synonym for "peak season," especially common in the travel industry.
  • They traveled to Europe in high season.
• Off-season / Low season (noun): The period of lowest demand and activity, often with lower prices.
  • We prefer to travel in the off-season to avoid crowds.
• Shoulder season (noun): The periods between peak and off-season, often with moderate weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices than peak season.
  • April and October are considered shoulder season in many Mediterranean destinations.

Synonyms

• Busy season: A simpler term emphasizing the high level of activity.
• Prime season: Emphasizes that it is the best or most important time for the activity.

Related Phrases

• Peak demand: The highest level of demand for a product or service.
  • The power grid struggles to meet peak demand on the hottest days of summer.
• Peak hours: The busiest times of day (e.g., for traffic, electricity use).
  • Try to avoid commuting during peak hours.

Noun

1. the season when travel is most active and rates are highest
   • they traveled to Europe in high season