daybreak

word

Definition

The time in the early morning when the first light appears and night ends; the beginning of the day.

Usage & Nuances

More poetic or literary than 'dawn', but both refer to the first light of morning. Used in descriptive writing and sometimes in conversation for dramatic effect. Collocates with 'at', as in 'at daybreak'.

Example Sentences

The birds start singing at daybreak.

basic

It was very quiet at daybreak in the city.

basic

We woke up at daybreak to watch the sunrise.

basic

The fishermen left the harbor just before daybreak.

natural

She couldn’t sleep and watched the sky lighten at daybreak.

natural

By daybreak, the storm had passed and everything was calm.

natural