Definition

The time in the late afternoon or early evening when tea is traditionally served, often accompanied by snacks or light meals.

Example

We always have a break for teatime at four o'clock.

Conversation

Are you free for teatime this afternoon?

Sure, I love having tea in the afternoon.

Great! What kind of tea do you want to enjoy during teatime?

How about some chai? It’s perfect for a cozy teatime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Teatime is formed from "tea" (from Chinese "t'e" or "cha", meaning a beverage made from the leaves of the tea plant) and "time" (from Old English "tima", meaning a period or duration). The word refers to a designated time for drinking tea, often in the afternoon.

Memory Tip

Imagine a special 'time' ('tima') set aside for enjoying a warm 'beverage' ('tea') — that's what teatime is all about.

Visually Confused Words