Basic Details
Word: Nocturnal
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Active during the night rather than during the day.
Synonyms: Night-active, night-dwelling
Antonyms: Diurnal, daytime
Idioms and Phrases
- Creatures of the night: Refers to animals or people who are most active or alive during the night. Example: "Owls and bats are often considered creatures of the night."
- The night is young: Used to express that there is plenty of time left in the night to enjoy activities. Example: "After dinner, he said, 'The night is young; let's go for a walk!'"
Usage Examples
Example 1: Owls are nocturnal creatures that hunt for food in the dark.
Example 2: Many people prefer to stay up late and are more productive during the nocturnal hours.
Example 3: The nocturnal animals in the zoo are fascinating to watch as they come to life when the sun sets.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the term "nocturnal" comes from the Latin word "nocturnus," which means "of the night"? This highlights the natural behaviours of animals and people who are most active when the sun goes down.
Famous Quote
"For the night is dark and full of terrors." - George R.R. Martin
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "nocturnal" mean?
a) Active during the day
b) Active during the night
c) Active at dawn
d) Active in the afternoon
Answer: b) Active during the night
2. Which of these is a synonym of "nocturnal"?
a) Daytime
b) Night-active
c) Morning
d) Afternoon
Answer: b) Night-active
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "nocturnal"?
a) Nocturnal animals
b) Nighttime
c) Diurnal animals
d) Evening
Answer: c) Diurnal animals
4. Which sentence uses "nocturnal" correctly?
a) The nocturnal animals sleep all day.
b) My cats are nocturnal and love to play at night.
c) A nocturnal sun shines brightly in the sky.
d) He enjoys nocturnal mornings every day.
Answer: b) My cats are nocturnal and love to play at night.
5. What does the idiom "creatures of the night" refer to?
a) Animals that sleep during the night
b) Animals or people who are most active at night
c) People who prefer mornings
d) Animals that only come out in daylight
Answer: b) Animals or people who are most active at night
