Daybreak: meaning, definitions and examples

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daybreak

[ˈdeɪbreɪk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

early morning

Daybreak is the time in the morning when light first appears in the sky, before the sun rises.

Synonyms

dawn, morning, sunrise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
daybreak	Use this word to refer to the moment when daylight first appears in the morning. It emphasizes the very initial light of the day. We set off at daybreak to avoid the midday heat. Birds start singing at daybreak.
dawn	This term is appropriate for referring to the early part of the morning when the sky begins to light up before the sun is visible. It can also metaphorically mean the beginning of something. The town was quiet at the crack of dawn. The new era dawned with the fall of the old regime.
sunrise	This term refers specifically to the time when the upper edge of the sun appears over the horizon. It highlights the actual rising of the sun. We watched the beautiful sunrise from the beach. The sunrise was a breathtaking view.
morning	Use this word to indicate the period from when someone wakes up until midday. It's broader and includes dawn, sunrise, and the hours following. We plan to have a morning meeting. The store opens in the morning and closes late at night.

Examples of usage

The birds start chirping at daybreak.
We woke up at daybreak to catch the sunrise.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

beginning

Daybreak can also refer to the beginning of something, such as a new era or period.

Synonyms

beginning, onset, start.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
daybreak	Same as the first entry, when referring to the early morning light. He left the house at daybreak to avoid traffic. Daybreak brought new hope to the weary travelers.
beginning	Use when referring to the start of something in a general sense, can apply to time, events, or objects. The beginning of the book was very interesting. Let's meet at the beginning of the week.
start	Use when referring to the commencement of an action, journey, or project. This can be both physical and metaphorical. We planned to start the project next month. I was nervous at the start of the race.
onset	Use when referring to the beginning of something, often something unpleasant like an illness or problem. The onset of winter brought cold and snow. She felt the onset of a headache.

Examples of usage

The daybreak of the industrial revolution brought significant changes.
We are witnessing the daybreak of a new political era.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'daybreak' comes from Middle English, using 'day' for daylight and 'break' meaning the beginning or opening of something.
It was first used in English literature in the 14th century to symbolize renewal and a fresh start.

Cultural Significance

Many cultures celebrate daybreak with rituals or prayers, viewing it as a moment of hope and new beginnings.
In literature and poetry, daybreak often represents a theme of awakening, providing metaphors for personal or spiritual enlightenment.

Nature and Science

Daybreak triggers various natural processes, such as plants opening up their flowers and animals becoming more active after night.
The phenomenon known as 'twilight' occurs before actual daybreak, with beautiful colors painting the sky due to sunlight scattering.

Psychology

The early morning light has been shown to positively affect mood and cognition, making daybreak a beneficial time for mental health.
Studies suggest that being exposed to natural light at daybreak can help regulate sleep cycles and improve overall well-being.

Art and Literature

Visually, daybreak is often depicted in paintings and photography to capture the contrast between night and the vibrant colors of the dawn.
Many poets write about daybreak to symbolize rebirth, change, and the cyclical nature of life.

Translations

Translations of the word "daybreak" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alvorada

🇮🇳 भोर

🇩🇪 Morgendämmerung

🇮🇩 fajar

🇺🇦 світанок

🇵🇱 świt

🇯🇵 夜明け

🇫🇷 aurore

🇪🇸 amanecer

🇹🇷 şafak vakti

🇰🇷 새벽

🇸🇦 فجر

🇨🇿 svítání

🇸🇰 svitanie

🇨🇳 黎明

🇸🇮 zora

🇮🇸 dögun

🇰🇿 таң

🇬🇪 განთიადი

🇦🇿 sübh

🇲🇽 amanecer