time of day

noun

1. a definite time as shown by a timepiece; the hour:

   Can you tell me the time of day?

2. Informal. a minimum of attention:

   He wouldn't even give her the time of day.

3. the current time; the present:

   The younger generation in this time of day encounters problems quite different from those of past generations.

Word History and Origins

Origin of time of day¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Idioms and Phrases

The hour shown on a clock; also, a stage in any activity or period. For example, What time of day is the repairman coming? or This is hardly the time of day to ask for another installment when he's just turned one in . [Late 1500s] Also see not give someone the time of day .