Afternoon Meaning and Definition
Afternoon
Pronunciation
/əˈtɛrnuːn/
Part of Speech
Noun or Adverb
Definition
The period of the day between noon and evening, typically defined as the time between 12 pm and 5 pm.
Examples
- I’m going for a walk in the afternoon.
- It’s the perfect time of day for a cup of tea in the afternoon.
Synonyms
- Midday
- Evening
Antonyms
- Morning
- Night
Etymology
The word “afternoon” comes from the Old French “apreson”, meaning “after sun”, and the Latin “apres”, meaning “after”.
Usage Notes
The word “afternoon” is often used to describe a specific time of day, but it can also be used as an adverb to describe an action that takes place during this time.
Cultural References
The phrase “Afternoon Delight” was popularized by the 1970s song of the same name by Starland Vocal Band.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Afternoon tea” refers to a traditional British custom of serving tea with snacks in the late afternoon.
- “Take a break in the afternoon” means to take time off from work or school in the late afternoon.
Related Words or Phrases
- Daybreak
- Evening
Collocations
- “Take a walk in the afternoon”
- “Have a cup of tea in the afternoon”
Frequency of Use
The word “afternoon” is commonly used in everyday conversation, particularly in British English.
Common Misspellings
- Afternoone
- Afternoonne