Afternoon Meaning
Afternoon Definition & Usage
The period of the day between noon and evening, generally from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Examples
- "Let's meet this afternoon around 3 PM."
- "The weather was perfect for a walk this afternoon."
- "I usually take a nap in the afternoon."
- "He came over in the afternoon to help me with the project."
- "She enjoys having a cup of tea in the afternoon."
A part of the day when events, activities, or events typically happen, often as an alternative to morning or evening.
Examples
- "The afternoon session of the conference was very engaging."
- "We’ll go shopping this afternoon, after lunch."
- "I have a dentist appointment this afternoon."
- "The team practiced all afternoon to prepare for the game."
- "The museum is open every afternoon until 6 PM."
Cultural Context
The term 'afternoon' has been in use since the 14th century, originally as 'afternoon'. It is a key part of the day in many cultures, often associated with relaxation, work, or socializing. The timing of afternoon varies globally but is typically understood as the period after lunch and before evening.
A Peaceful Afternoon
Story
A Peaceful Afternoon
The sun was beginning its slow descent, casting a golden glow over the park. Sarah sat on the weathered bench, a book in her lap, but her attention kept drifting toward the children playing nearby. The sound of laughter and the distant chirping of birds made the afternoon feel almost magical. It was a typical Saturday afternoon, one that seemed to stretch endlessly before her. She had finished most of her work in the morning, and now it was time for a few moments of peace before the evening rush. Her friend Emma had suggested they meet up for coffee, but Sarah had insisted on this quiet, solitary retreat. 'The afternoon is the best time to reflect,' she had told Emma, a sentiment Sarah had always held true. As the clock struck three, Sarah glanced at her phone. She had planned to leave in another hour, but something about the serene atmosphere kept her rooted to the bench. The park was a beautiful blend of colors—the deep green of the grass, the pale blue sky, and the amber hues of the sun. For a moment, she allowed herself to just be, to bask in the simplicity of the afternoon. Later that day, she would meet Emma for dinner, but for now, the afternoon was all hers. 'Afternoon is the time when everything seems to fall into place,' Sarah mused, taking a deep breath. The busy morning had been replaced by a calming silence. It felt like the perfect moment to just pause and appreciate the world around her. 'Maybe I should do this more often.' As the sun dipped lower, the air grew cooler, and Sarah felt that familiar pull of evening approaching. Her brief escape from the hectic pace of the day had recharged her, and she was ready for whatever the evening would bring.