dawn

word

/ˈdɔn/
dawn
/dˈɔːn/
dawn

Definition

Dawn is the time of day when light first appears in the sky before the sun rises. It can also mean the beginning of an important period or idea.

Usage & Nuances

Most commonly a noun for early morning light: 'at dawn', 'before dawn', 'from dawn to dusk'. It is slightly more literary than 'sunrise', which usually refers more directly to the moment the sun appears. 'The dawn of...' is common for a new era or beginning.

Example Sentences

We woke up at dawn to catch the first bus.

basic

The sky was pink at dawn.

basic

Birds start singing before dawn.

basic

By the time dawn broke, we were still on the road.

natural

It was at dawn that the idea finally hit me.

natural

Many people saw it as the dawn of a new era.

natural