night owl
Meaning
A person who stays up late and is most active or productive at night.
Origin
From the owl’s nocturnal habits; owls are active and hunt at night, so the phrase became a metaphor for people who are awake late.
Notes
Casual label for someone who naturally prefers late nights; often contrasts with “early bird.” Not necessarily negative.
Examples
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I’ve always been a night owl, so I do my best work after midnight.
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She’s a night owl and rarely goes to bed before 2 a.m.
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As a night owl, he schedules meetings for the afternoon whenever he can.
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I’m not a night owl anymore; waking up early for work changed my habits.
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If you’re a night owl, try dimming your screens at night to help you wind down.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Used as a noun: “a night owl,” “I’m a night owl.” Often preceded by an article; can be modified (“total/real night owl”).
Synonyms
- night person
- nocturnal person
- late-night person
Antonyms
- early bird
- morning person