sunset

American  

[suhn-set] / ˈsʌnˌsɛt /

noun

1. the setting or descent of the sun below the horizon in the evening.

2. the atmospheric and scenic phenomena accompanying this.

3. the time when the sun sets.

4. the close or final stage of any period.

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adjective

1. (of an industry, technology, etc.) old; declining.

   sunset industries.

2. of, relating to, or characteristic of a sunset law.

   to add sunset restrictions to a bill.

sunset British  

/ ˈsʌnˌsɛt /

noun

1. the daily disappearance of the sun below the horizon

2. the atmospheric phenomena accompanying this disappearance

3. Also called: sundown.  the time at which the sun sets at a particular locality

4. the final stage or closing period, as of a person's life

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Etymology

Origin of sunset

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at sun, set

Example Sentences

To hear her booming vocals on a recent Wednesday, you had to make your way to the Sunset Vista Ballroom at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

Hudson Pacific’s Sunset Studios business is not affected by the Quixote news.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

He joins us at the swanky Sunset Marquis hotel in West Hollywood where rock stars have gathered for decades in a luxury oasis behind the Sunset Strip.

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

Newport Harbor 8, Fountain Valley 1: Gavin Guy threw six innings in the Sunset League win.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2026

Theo pedaled back to Sunset Towers at a furious pace.

From "The Westing Game" by Ellen Raskin

Related Words

• dusk
• nightfall
• sundown
• twilight