nocturnal
UK: /nɒkˈtɜː.nəl/ | US: /nɑːkˈtɜː.nəl/
adj. Active or occurring during the night.
adj. Relating to or characteristic of the night.
adj. (Biology) Adapted to function or thrive in darkness.
The word "nocturnal" traces back to Latin nocturnus, derived from nox (genitive noctis), meaning "night." The suffix -urnus (later adapted to -urnal in English) forms adjectives indicating association, akin to "diurnal" (day-related). The modern English form preserves the Latin root noct- while simplifying the suffix structure. The word’s evolution reflects a direct borrowing from Latin into Middle English, retaining its core meaning tied to nighttime activity.
Owls are nocturnal birds, hunting primarily at night.
The garden’s nocturnal insects emerge after sunset.
She enjoys the peaceful ambiance of nocturnal walks.
Bats have highly adapted nocturnal vision.
The study focused on the nocturnal habits of urban wildlife.