early-morning

UK: ˌɜːli ˈmɔːnɪŋ | US: ˌɜːrli ˈmɔːrnɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. occurring or done in the early part of the morning

  2. n. the early part of the morning

Structure
early <before the usual time>morning <the period from sunrise to noon>
Etymology

The compound "early-morning" combines "early," derived from Old English ǣrlice (meaning "soon" or "before the expected time"), and "morning," from Old English morgen (referring to the dawn or early part of the day). The hyphenated form emphasizes the specific time frame, distinguishing it from broader uses of "morning." The logic is straightforward: "early" narrows the scope of "morning" to its earliest hours, often associated with quietness or productivity.

Examples

  1. She enjoys early-morning walks when the streets are still empty.

  2. The early-morning fog made driving difficult.

  3. His early-morning routine includes meditation and coffee.

  4. Birdsong is a common sound in the early-morning hours.

  5. The early-morning flight was cheaper but required waking up at 4 AM.