After hours is a term that is commonly used in various contexts. It is a phrase that is used to describe activities or events that occur outside of normal business hours. The term can be used in different ways, depending on the context in which it is being used.
Definitions
After hours refers to the time after a business or establishment has closed for the day. This can include activities such as socializing, partying, or working on personal projects. In the financial world, after hours refers to the time when trading on the stock market is closed, but electronic trading is still available.
Origin
The term after hours has been in use for many years. Its origin is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The term was first used to describe activities that took place after normal business hours.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, after hours means “outside the usual working hours.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “occurring or engaged in after a business has closed for the day.” Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “happening or done after the usual time when a place closes.”
Associations
After hours is often associated with socializing, partying, and other leisure activities. It is also associated with electronic trading on the stock market, as well as with working on personal projects or hobbies.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of after hours include after dark, late night, and off-hours.
Antonyms
Antonyms of after hours include business hours, regular hours, and daytime.
The same root words
The same root words as after hours include after, which means following in time or sequence, and hours, which refers to a period of time.
Example Sentences
- “Let’s meet up after hours and grab a drink.”
- “The stock market is closed, but electronic trading is still available after hours.”
- “I like to work on my art after hours when I have some free time.”
- “The store is closed now, but it will be open during regular business hours tomorrow.”
- “After dark is the best time to go stargazing.”