bedtime - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
bedtime Word Meanings
- The time, usually in the evening, when you should go to bed.
- The routine or period of going to bed, especially for children.
- The time or moment designated for going to sleep, as in the phrase it's bedtime.
bedtime Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
bedtime Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈbɛd.taɪm/
US
/ˈbɛd.taɪm/
bedtime Word Etymology
Root decomposition: bed + time form a compound noun. Historical origin: from Germanic roots; bed from Old English and time from Old English; the term appears in Middle English. Memory image: imagine a cozy bedroom at dusk, a clock ticking toward night, and a parent whispering good night as the covers welcome rest.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Bedtime refers to the time in the evening when most people should go to bed; it also names the routine that leads to sleep. In many families, 'it's bedtime' signals a transition from activities to rest, and parents often use a bedtime routine—bath, story, lights out—to help children wind down. Adults may treat bedtime more flexibly, but a regular schedule supports better sleep. The term appears in phrases like 'bedtime story,' 'bedtime routine,' and 'it's bedtime' in everyday speech. The concept can vary by culture: some say 'early to bed, early to rise,' while others allow later nights on weekends. Understanding bedtime helps with discussing sleep habits, schedules, and routines.
Usage Reminders
- - It's bedtime is a fixed phrase.
- - Use 'go to bed' for the action of lying down to sleep.
- - Do not write 'bed time' as two words; the standard is 'bedtime'.
- - Say 'it's bedtime' to signal kids.
- - Use 'bedtime routine' for the nightly sequence (bath, story, lights out).
Common Misconceptions
- Bedtime is always a specific clock time; in reality it varies by family and age.
- Bedtime and going to bed are the same thing; bedtime is the scheduled time, not the act.
- Bedtime always means darkness or a story; it can simply be a quiet wind-down.
- It's okay to say 'bed time' as two words; the correct form is 'bedtime'.
- Bedtime only applies to children.
Thinking Differences
English tends to treat 'bedtime' as a fixed cultural cue for winding down, with clear idioms (it's bedtime, bedtime story, bedtime routine). Learners often split it into two words or treat it as a free-floating schedule rather than a conventional noun that names a time and set of practices.
Learning Tips
- Practice with dialogues: 'It's bedtime' to signal a child, and 'time to go to bed' for adults.
- Learn common collocations: bedtime story, bedtime routine, bedtime snack (less common, but possible).
- Differentiate quickly: 'bedtime' (time) vs 'go to bed' (action).
- Use 'at bedtime' for routine context, 'before bedtime' for sequence planning.
- Watch for cultural variations: some families keep later hours on weekends.
- Pronunciation: focus on the single-stress form BED-time.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'bedtime'?
A.Time to wake up
B.Time for school
C.Time to go to bed
D.Time for lunch
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'bedtime' correctly?
A.My mom reads me a story at bedtime every night.
B.I always play at bedtime and then do my homework.
C.I love bedtime because I can stay up all night.
D.I always sleep in past bedtime in the morning.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is an opposite word for 'bedtime'?
A.Lunchtime
B.Morning time
C.Playtime
D.Midnight
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would you hear someone say 'bedtime'?
A.At the doctor's office
B.In a movie theater
C.Before going to sleep
D.During a sports game
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on why having a consistent bedtime routine is important.
A.To have fun
B.To stay up late
C.To skip sleeping
D.To get enough rest
Related Listening
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