Definition

The regular time when people eat their meals.

Example

We always gather as a family during mealtime to share stories.

Conversation

What time do you usually have mealtime at your house?

We usually eat dinner around six o'clock.

That's not too late! I prefer an earlier mealtime myself.

I get that; sometimes I wish we could eat earlier too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mealtime is formed from "meal" (from Old English *mæl*, meaning a portion of food) and "time" (from Old English *tima*, meaning a period or duration). The word "mealtime" refers to the specific time designated for eating a meal.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'portion of food' ('meal') that is eaten during a 'period' ('time') — that's what mealtime means.

Visually Confused Words