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

The pier was a short stroll from my apartment, and when we walked Fofo at sunset, Vagner always wanted to climb the wooden stairs and take in the glorious view from the pier.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

The tariff deal now includes a sunset clause under which regulation will cease to apply at the end of 2029 unless it is extended.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026

Another concerns so-called "sunrise" and "sunset" clauses under which the EU side of the accord would kick in once the United States makes fully good on its pledges, and would expire unless renewed in 2028.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

One of the reasons given was opposition to so-called "sunset clauses" which would have allowed some restrictions on Iran to expire over time.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

In all these days, the sun had come out only twice, once for an hour early in the morning, and once late in the evening to give them a fine sunset.

From "Homecoming" by Cynthia Voigt

Related Words

• dusk
• nightfall
• sundown
• twilight