dinnertime

noun

din·​ner·​time ˈdi-nər-ˌtīm How to pronounce dinnertime (audio)
: the customary time for dinner

Examples of dinnertime in a Sentence

I hate getting phone calls at dinnertime.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That kind of schedule can mean parents miss out on dinnertime, bathtime and potentially bedtime. — Erin Mansfield, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026 According to colleagues familiar with the area, parking near the fast-food spots become scarce during dinnertime, while drive-through lines can block what little space remains. — Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 24 Aug. 2026 Leavitt recommended parents create a space at home where their children feel safe to express their emotions and talk about them, specifically through a routine such as dinnertime. — Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 21 Aug. 2026 There's a slight chance for a rogue shower that could clip the metro before dinnertime. — Chris Shaffer, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dinnertime

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dinnertime was in the 14th century

Rhymes for dinnertime

See All Rhymes for dinnertime

Browse Nearby Words

dinner theater
dinnertime
dinner wagon
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dinnertime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dinnertime. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

dinnertime

noun
din·​ner·​time -ˌtīm How to pronounce dinnertime (audio)
: the usual time for dinner
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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