daytime
UK[ˈdeɪtaɪm]US[ˈdeɪtaɪm]
n
The part of the day when there is natural light from the sun; the period between sunrise and sunset.
Morpheme Breakdown
day
time
day
period of 24 hours
time
period
Etymology
The word 'daytime' is a transparent compound formed from two fundamental Old English nouns, 'day' and 'time'. The concept of 'day' originates from a Proto-Indo-European root associated with heat and burning, reflecting the sun's role in defining the period of light. 'Time' evolved from a Germanic root concerning a fixed or fitting period. Their combination in Middle English logically created a term specifying the particular 'time' characterized by daylight, distinguishing it from the night. This construction exemplifies how English builds precise, concrete meanings by joining simple, ancient roots.
Analysis
Structure: day (period of 24 hours) + time (period)
- day: From Old English 'dæg', meaning "day, lifetime, period." It is of Germanic origin, from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning "to burn."
- time: From Old English 'tīma', meaning "a limited space of time, period, season." It is of Germanic origin, related to 'tide'.
Examples
The animals are most active during the daytime.
Daytime temperatures will be significantly warmer than overnight.
She works the daytime shift at the hospital.