diary

noun

di·​a·​ry ˈdī-(ə-)rē How to pronounce diary (audio)
plural diaries
1
: a record of events, transactions, or observations kept daily or at frequent intervals : journal
especially : a daily record of personal activities, reflections, or feelings
2
: a book intended or used for a diary

Examples of diary in a Sentence

has diligently kept a diary since she was 15
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
No arrests were made, but the agents seized cash, records detailing wagers, and ledgers and diaries with betting information. Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 21 Mar. 2025 The story follows Anna, an outcast who discovers her deceased roommate’s diary and encounters a ghostly flame embodying her spirit. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 19 Mar. 2025 How every sleeping positions can affect your health How to find the best sleep position for you Over the course of a few weeks, use a sleep diary to track what sleep position feels most comfortable for you, suggests McPhillips. Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 4 Mar. 2025 Keep a Headache Diary A diary of what occurred before and during a headache can help you and your healthcare provider determine triggers and possible treatments. Cathy Nelson, Verywell Health, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for diary

Word History

Etymology

Latin diarium, from dies day — more at deity

First Known Use

1581, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of diary was in 1581

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Diary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/diary. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

diary

noun
di·​a·​ry ˈdī-(ə-)rē How to pronounce diary (audio)
plural diaries
: a daily record especially of personal experiences and thoughts
also : a book for keeping such a record
Etymology

from Latin diarium "a record of business dealings or activities during the day," from dies "day" — related to meridian, sunday see Word History at sunday

More from Merriam-Webster on diary

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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