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Diurnal - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

diurnal

/daɪˈɝnəl/ /daɪˈɜːnəl/

Definition:

Active or occurring during the daytime, opposite of nocturnal.

Synonyms:

daytime, daily, day-active

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

nocturnal, nightly

Common Collocations:

diurnal rhythm, diurnal cycle, diurnal activity

Derivatives:

diurnally, diurnality

Usage Tips:

Use "diurnal" to describe animals or processes active in daylight, contrasting with "nocturnal."

Common Phrases:

diurnal variation, diurnal pattern, diurnal creature

Etymology:

From Latin "diurnalis," meaning "daily," derived from "dies" (day).

Examples:

  • 1. Birds are diurnal creatures, active during daylight hours.
  • 2. The diurnal cycle affects plant photosynthesis and growth patterns.
  • 3. Most humans follow a diurnal schedule, sleeping at night and working by day.
  • 4. Diurnal animals rely on sunlight for hunting and navigation.

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