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

"We have to look at a genuine just transition and a genuine future for folk in Aberdeen that means diversifying the economy - not hanging on to a sunset industry," she says.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Interestingly, the longest day of the year does not necessarily coincide with the earliest sunrise or latest sunset.

From Science Daily • Jun. 3, 2026

They met while shooting her campaign advertisements and he proposed to her while surfing in the sunset.

From Barron's • 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

The sky was streaked with spiraling ribbons of smoke that rose from farmhouse chimneys and disappeared into the orange blaze of the sunset.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood

Related Words

• dusk
• nightfall
• sundown
• twilight