AM and PM Meaning and Definition
A.m. and pm
Pronunciation
/ˈeɪ ˈɛm ænd ˈpiː ˈem/
Part of Speech
Noun Phrase
Definition
A phrase used to refer to the times of the day, specifically in the morning (ante meridiem) and afternoon/evening (post meridiem), with am denoting hours between midnight and noon, and pm denoting hours between noon and midnight.
Etymology
From Latin ante meridiem (before mid-day) and post meridiem (after mid-day), used to indicate the times of day in ancient Rome.
Usage Notes
A.m. and pm are commonly used in schedules, calendars, and timetables to indicate the start and end times of events. They can also be used in conversation to specify the time of day, such as “I’ll meet you at 3 p.m.”.
Cultural References
A.m. and pm have been used in various contexts in popular culture, including in movie titles, song lyrics, and book titles. For example, the movie “A.M. and P.M.” (2000) explores the relationship between time and memory.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- We’re going to the movies at 7 p.m.
- I’ll be available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Related Words or Phrases
- Midday
- Time zone
- Hour
Collocations
- Meet at 3 p.m.
- Arrive at 9 a.m.
- Depart at 5 p.m.
Frequency of Use
A.m. and pm are commonly used in everyday conversation and writing, especially in formal and professional settings.
Common Misspellings
- a.m. and pm
- am and pm
- a.m. and pm