time of day

American  

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.

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time of day Idioms  

1. 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.

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Etymology

Origin of time of day

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

time of day

Earlier this year, Burnham removed time-restricted travel for those with disabled passes in Manchester so they could use the city's bus system, known as the Bee Network, at any time of day.

From BBC ● Aug. 18, 2026

Cascading light effects alter with the time of day.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 14, 2026

Swiss tourist Philippe Bignens, 56, visiting London with his father, told AFP they had to change plans and retreat to their hotel to avoid being outside at the hottest time of day.

From Barron's ● May 26, 2026

I learn, is “trained by Dr. Becky” and will answer your parenting questions in Dr. Becky’s “voice” any time of day or night.

From Slate ● May 10, 2026

I noticed some of our neighbors standing on the sidewalk, many more than were usually out this time of day.

From "Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle to Integrate Little Rock's Central High" by Melba Pattillo Beals