bedtime

American  

[bed-tahym] / ˈbɛdˌtaɪm /

noun

1. the time times at which a person usually goes to bed.

   It's past my bedtime.

2. the time times at which a person goes to bed on a particular night.

   I have to get up early tomorrow so bedtime tonight will be 9 o'clock.

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bedtime British  

/ ˈbɛdˌtaɪm /

noun

1. 1. the time when one usually goes to bed

   2. ( as modifier )

      a bedtime story

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Etymology

Origin of bedtime

Middle English word dating back to 1200–50; bed, time

Example Sentences

These strategies include maintaining consistent bedtime routines, limiting screen exposure before bed, and setting age appropriate sleep expectations.

From Science Daily • Mar. 15, 2026

I had skipped dinner with them and my wife, and it was not yet bedtime for the little ones.

From Salon • Mar. 7, 2026

Your partner’s early bedtime when you want to stay up isn’t lazy, selfish or a reflection of their love.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 22, 2026

Here are four that kept me up past my bedtime.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 28, 2026

I was just reading it to the children before bedtime.

From "The Hidden Gallery" by Maryrose Wood