Definition

The time of day that comes after noon and lasts until evening, usually when the sun is still up.

Example

We usually have lunch in the afternoon.

Conversation

What do you usually do in the afternoon?

I like to go for a walk or read a book.

That sounds nice! I prefer to relax at home in the afternoon.

Yeah, it’s a great time to unwind before dinner.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Afternoon → It is formed from "after" (from Old English "æfter", meaning following in time) and "noon" (from Old English "non", meaning the ninth hour of the day, which was around midday). The word "afternoon" refers to the time following noon, or the period of the day after midday.

Memory Tip

Think of the time that comes 'after' ('after') 'noon' ('noon') — that's why afternoon means the time after midday.

Visually Confused Words