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Definition of afternoon

afternoon

/ˌæf.tɚˈnuːn/
af · ter · noon
Plural:afternoons
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afternoon Lexical Profile

afternoon Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The period of time extending from midday (noon) until evening.

Example

"We spent the entire afternoon studying at the university library."

2

The later, declining, or mature stage of a person's life or of a historical period.

Example

"In the quiet afternoon of his career, the professor focused on mentoring younger scholars."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adjective

1

Occurring in, relating to, or suitable for the time between noon and evening.

Example

"She always enjoys a quiet cup of tea during her afternoon break."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• interjection

1

An informal greeting or farewell used during the period between noon and evening, shortened from 'good afternoon'.

Example

"Afternoon, neighbor! Lovely weather we are having today."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for afternoon

• Nearby Words

afterlife
aftermarket
aftermath
afternoon
afterparty
afters
aftersales

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English as a compound of the preposition 'after' and the noun 'none' (noon), originally referring to the time following the canonical hour of nones.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Afternoon. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/afternoon
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