How Do You Spell AFTER DARK?

Pronunciation: [ˈaftə dˈɑːk] (IPA)

The phrase "after dark" is commonly used to describe activities that take place in the evening or at night. The spelling of this phrase can be explained through its phonetic transcription /ˈæftər/ /dɑːrk/. The first syllable "af" is pronounced with the short "a" sound, followed by the "f" sound. The second syllable "ter" is pronounced with the "t" sound and the "er" sound that is typically represented by the letter "e". The final word "dark" is pronounced with the "d" sound, the long "a" sound, and the "rk" sound represented by the letter "k".

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Plural
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AFTER DARK Meaning and Definition

  1. After dark is a term used to describe the time period during the night, specifically after the sun has set and the sky is completely dark. It refers to the period of time when the natural light from the sun is no longer present, typically between dusk and dawn. As darkness falls, various activities and events may take place during this time span.

    In a broader sense, "after dark" is often associated with a sense of mystery, secrecy, or even danger. It is commonly used in literature, film, and other forms of storytelling to create an atmosphere of suspense or intrigue. It suggests that things that occur after dark are outside the norm, as the darkness conceals what would be visible in daylight.

    Furthermore, "after dark" can be used metaphorically to indicate a transition from a more innocent or mundane period to a time of illicit or illicitly enjoyed activities. It can connote a shift towards more adult, unconventional, or illicit behavior.

    Overall, "after dark" denotes the period of darkness that occurs after sunset and before sunrise. However, it can also encompass the ideas of mystery, suspense, and illicit activities, adding depth to its definition beyond a simple description of time.

Common Misspellings for AFTER DARK

Etymology of AFTER DARK

The phrase "after dark" is a combination of two separate words with their own etymology:

1. After: The word "after" derives from Old English "æfter", which evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "*aftar". It ultimately comes from the Proto-Indo-European root "*apo-", meaning "off, away". Over time, "after" has retained its basic meaning of denoting something that follows in time or order.

2. Dark: The word "dark" originated from the Old English noun "deorc", which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*derkaz". This word has cognates in various Germanic languages, such as German "dunkel" and Dutch "donker". The exact origin of "*derkaz" is uncertain, but it likely stems from the Proto-Indo-European root "*derk-", meaning "to see less, to blink".

Plural form of AFTER DARK is AFTER DARKS