Definition

Noun: 1. A specific, identifiable period within the year: A point or span of time characterized by particular weather patterns, daylight hours, natural events, or cultural activities. It often refers to one of the four seasons but can also denote other recurring annual periods. 2. A period marked by specific atmospheric conditions: A stretch of time defined by a prevailing type of weather or climate.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Spring is my favorite time of year.
  • The holiday time of year is always very busy.
  • This time of year is known for its frequent rain showers.
  • We always plant vegetables at this time of year.

Advanced Usage

• "that time of year": Used to refer to a specific, well-known period, often with a sense of nostalgia or recognition of its typical characteristics.
  • When the leaves start to change color, you know it's that time of year again.
• "a beautiful/terrible time of year": Describes the quality of a specific seasonal period.
  • Early autumn is a beautiful time of year to visit the mountains.

Variants and Related Words

• Season (n): One of the four main divisions of the year (spring, summer, autumn, winter). This is the most direct synonym.
• Period (n): A length or portion of time.
• Time (n): A general, non-countable noun for the indefinite continued progress of existence. "Time of year" specifies a particular segment of this.

Synonyms

• Season
• Period of the year
• Part of the year

Related Phrases

• Time of day: A specific period within a 24-hour cycle (e.g., morning, afternoon).
  • I prefer to exercise in the early morning, my favorite time of day.
• Time of life: A particular stage or age in a person's life.
  • Retirement is a different time of life.

Related Idioms

• "There's a time and a place for everything": This idiom emphasizes that everything is appropriate only in its correct context or season. It relates conceptually to "time of year" by highlighting the importance of timing.
  • I know you're excited about Halloween, but decorating in August? There's a time and a place for everything.

Noun

1. one of the natural periods into which the year is divided by the equinoxes and solstices or atmospheric conditions
   • the regular sequence of the seasons