fortnight

American  

[fawrt-nahyt, -nit] / ˈfɔrtˌnaɪt, -nɪt /

noun

1. the space of fourteen nights and days; two weeks.

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fortnight British  

/ ˈfɔːtˌnaɪt /

noun

1. a period of 14 consecutive days; two weeks

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Etymology

Origin of fortnight

First recorded before 1000; Middle English fourtenight, contraction of Old English fēowertēne niht; see fourteen, night

Explanation

A fortnight is fourteen nights, or two weeks. This word isn't used much in American English, but you'll come across it if you travel to England — or read a lot of old British novels. The word fortnight is still in use in Great Britain and some former British colonies. It comes from the Old English, and is literally a shortened form of fourteen nights. People sometimes use it when they're discussing their vacations or their pay schedules. In the United States, however, people typically just say "two weeks."

Example Sentences

But the Director’s Fortnight, an independent sidebar showcase where films outside of the Cannes competition premiere, offers a glimpse at worthy films that might not have the same razzle-dazzle as the festival proper.

From Salon • Jun. 8, 2025

Taylor Swift's first televised award of the night was best collaboration, for her duet with Post Malone, Fortnight.

From BBC • Sep. 12, 2024

The Money gang talks Disney’s Fortnight and Taylor Swift investments, why NYCB’s loss is renters’ gain, and the comeback of the SAT.

From Slate • Feb. 10, 2024

A superior opening-night film screened Wednesday in Directors’ Fortnight, an independently organized event that runs parallel to the festival’s official selection.

From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2023

Fortnight, more likely; I should say about a week.”

From Dead Man's Land Being the Voyage to Zimbambangwe of certain and uncertain blacks and whites by Wood, Stanley L.