Bedtime Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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bedtime
[ˈbɛdˌtaɪm ]
Definitions
sleeping routine
The time at which a child is expected to go to bed; the time at which a person usually goes to bed.
Synonyms
nighttime, sleep time.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bedtime |
This word is commonly used to refer to the specific time when someone usually goes to bed. It's often used by parents talking to children.
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| nighttime |
This word refers to the period from evening until the next morning. It can generally involve activities happening during the night.
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| sleep time |
This phrase is often used to indicate the period allocated for sleep, without specifying an exact time. It's commonly used in routines or schedules.
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Examples of usage
- He always reads a bedtime story to his daughter.
- She has a strict bedtime of 10 p.m.
children
The time at which children are expected to go to bed.
Synonyms
curfew, lights out.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bedtime |
This word is commonly used to refer to the time when someone, especially a child, should go to bed to sleep. It is a neutral term and is often used in a family setting or for work schedules.
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| lights out |
Lights out is a term often used in institutional settings like boarding schools, military establishments, or camps to indicate that it's time to turn off the lights and go to sleep. It has a more formal or organizational tone.
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| curfew |
Curfew generally refers to a rule or law that requires people to be indoors at a certain time. It can be imposed by parents for their children or by authorities during emergencies or unrest. The word often has a negative or authoritative tone.
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Examples of usage
- For young children, establishing a regular bedtime is important.
- The parents enforced a strict bedtime for their kids.
routine
A set time at which a person regularly goes to bed.
Synonyms
nighttime habit, sleep schedule.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bedtime |
Used to refer to the specific time at which someone goes to bed.
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| sleep schedule |
Used to refer to the planned times for sleeping and waking up, often to maintain good health.
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Examples of usage
- She struggled to stick to a bedtime routine.
- He had a bedtime of 11 p.m. every night.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Practices
- In many cultures, bedtime stories are a cherished routine, helping children wind down and sparking their imagination.
- Some communities have specific bedtime rituals, such as saying prayers or singing lullabies, to create a peaceful transition to sleep.
Health and Science
- Studies show that consistent bedtimes can improve sleep quality and overall health, making it easier to wake up refreshed.
- Children who maintain a regular sleep schedule often perform better in school, both academically and socially.
Literature
- Bedtime is a common theme in literature, representing the idea of safety, comfort, and the transition from day to night.
- Many beloved children's books revolve around bedtime, encouraging routines and the adventure of dreaming.
Psychology
- Establishing a calming bedtime routine can reduce anxiety and improve sleep, especially for children who may feel scared at night.
- Nighttime rituals, like reading or consulting a nightlight, help create a sense of security, easing the fear of darkness.
Origin of 'bedtime'
The word 'bedtime' originated from the combination of 'bed' and 'time'. It first appeared in the early 19th century and has been used to refer to the time at which a person goes to bed or the routine of going to bed regularly. Establishing a bedtime routine is often recommended for good sleep hygiene and overall health.
See also: bed, bedclothes, bedding, bedridden, bedrock, bedroom, bedspread.