prime time

noun

1
: the time period when the television or radio audience is the largest
also : television shows shown in prime time
2
: the choicest or busiest time
3
: big time sense 2
a pitcher not yet ready for prime time
prime-time
ˈprīm-ˌtīm How to pronounce prime time (audio)
adjective

Examples of prime time in a Sentence

The program is being shown during prime time. He's the best actor in prime time.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fall, when gardeners in climates with cold winters put their gardens to rest, is prime time for mulching. — Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 28 Oct. 2026 But the league has been asked to explain why a potential championship clincher had to leave prime time. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 28 Oct. 2026 The Panthers will find out, in prime time, on Thursday night. — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 28 Oct. 2026 Monday morning is not exactly prime time for dealership traffic, but a handful of prospective customers were in the showroom, which is a promising sign. — Eric Bangeman, ArsTechnica, 20 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prime time

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of prime time was in 1947

Rhymes for prime time

See All Rhymes for prime time

Browse Nearby Words

prime the pump
prime time
prime tone
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Prime time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prime%20time. Accessed 29 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

prime time

noun
: the time in the evening when television has its largest number of viewers
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