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; sun, set

Example Sentences

Conversations revolved around sunsets and legislative risk, and planning was defensive.

From Barron's

A "sunset clause" will see the agreement end by 31 March 2028.

From BBC

At a sanctuary in Walvis Bay, Namibia, a group of lesser flamingos gather beneath a stretch of power lines at sunset.

From BBC

Once sunset hit and prayers were called, the queues started building - and the food fast ran out.

From BBC

“I will be cheering on Josh, Dana and all of you as I sail off into the sunset,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• dusk
• nightfall
• sundown
• twilight