day degree

noun

: one degree above or below a temperature adopted as a standard (as 42° F for the temperature at which vegetation commences) for a period of 24 hours or its equivalent (as 2° for 12 hours or 4° for 6 hours)

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of day degree was in 1884

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near day degree

Cite this Entry

“Day degree.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/day%20degree. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!