Hour

Definition

Hour is a noun that refers to a unit of time equal to 60 minutes or 1/24th of a day. It can also represent a specific point in time or a set period for a particular activity.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈaʊɚ/
• Respelling: OW-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈaʊə/
• Respelling: OW-uh

Etymology

The word "hour" originates from the Old French "houre," derived from the Latin "hora," meaning "hour" or "time." The Latin term itself comes from the Greek "hōra," which referred to a specific period or season. The modern use as a standardized time unit dates back to the medieval period.

Derivatives

• Hourly (adjective/adverb)
• Hours-long (adjective)
• Hourglass (noun)
• After-hours (adjective)
• Workhour (noun)

Synonyms

• Time
• Moment
• Duration

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "hour" is commonly used in everyday contexts to measure time or schedule activities. For example, "The movie lasts two hours," or "He arrived an hour late."

Related Terms

• Minute: A unit of time equal to 1/60th of an hour.
• Clock: A device used to measure and display time.
• Day: A period of 24 hours.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A unit of time equal to 60 minutes: Refers to the standardized measurement of time.
  • Example: "The meeting will last one hour."
• A specific point in time: Indicates a particular moment or time of day.
  • Example: "The train departs at this hour every day."
• A fixed or appointed period for an activity: Refers to designated times for events or schedules.
  • Example: "Office hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m."