twilight zone
Americannoun
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the lowest level of the ocean that light can reach.
-
an ill-defined area between two distinct conditions, categories, etc., usually comprising certain features of both; an indefinite boundary.
a twilight zone between fantasy and reality.
noun
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any indefinite or transitional condition or area
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an area of a city or town, usually surrounding the central business district, where houses have become dilapidated
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the lowest level of the ocean to which light can penetrate
Etymology
Origin of twilight zone
First recorded in 1905–10
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“An officer could simply invent an accusation of criminality, leaving the green-card holder trapped in a bureaucratic twilight zone for years before they have a chance to rebut the accusation at a hearing,” Mark writes.
From Slate ● Jun. 25, 2026
"It almost felt like being in the twilight zone," he added.
From BBC ● Feb. 23, 2026
The twilight zone teems with life, including krill, squid, fish, octopus, and delicate jelly-like species.
From Science Daily ● Nov. 8, 2025
But Cochran would later describe the case as “a twilight zone of deceit, dishonesty, betrayal and official corruption.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 28, 2025
Mr. Dunwoody uses the kiln as a cupboard, and the darkroom’s a twilight zone only Art Club members get to see.
From "Black Swan Green" by David Mitchell
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
