Definition

A drink, often alcoholic, that is consumed just before going to bed.

Example

After a long day, he enjoyed a nightcap to help him relax before sleep.

Conversation

I think I’ll have a nightcap before bed tonight.

That sounds nice! What are you planning to drink?

Maybe just some warm whiskey; it always helps me sleep better.

Good choice! A little nightcap can be very relaxing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nightcap → The word is formed from "night" (from Old English "niht", meaning the period of darkness) and "cap" (from Old French "cape", meaning a covering or head covering). A nightcap originally referred to a cap worn at night, and it has evolved to mean a drink taken before bed, metaphorically covering one for the night.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'darkness' of 'night' and a 'covering' like a 'cap' — a nightcap is something that covers you as you sleep, like a drink before bed.

Visually Confused Words