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goodnight

C2

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ɡʊdnˈaɪt/

US

  • /ˈɡʊdˌnaɪt/

Description

"Goodnight" is what people say at the end of the day when someone is going to bed or when they are parting for the night. It is more than a simple "goodbye" because it also carries a kind wish for rest and peaceful sleep. You can picture a parent tucking a child into bed and softly saying "goodnight" with care.

People use it when leaving late in the evening, when ending a phone call at night, or right before sleep. It is often said with phrases like "Sweet dreams" or "Sleep tight." In standard English, this expression is usually written as two words, "good night," but the one-word form also appears in informal writing, titles, and some set uses. It feels warm, familiar, and gently caring.

Examples

  1. 1

    Bedtime farewell

    "Goodnight, everyone. See you in the morning."

  2. 2

    Phone call

    She called her son to say goodnight before his trip.

  3. 3

    Bedtime routine

    He kissed the children goodnight and turned off the hallway light.

    • Pattern

      kiss someone goodnight

      kiss them before saying goodnight

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • goodnight