diary

noun

di·​a·​ry ˈdī-(ə-)rē 

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

Synonyms

• daybook
• journal

Examples of diary in a Sentence

has diligently kept a diary since she was 15

Recent Examples on the Web

Sarah Khan penned a travel diary on the hurdles of reaching Naar, the 16-seat, tasting menu destination on the cover of the Travel Issue. April 3, 2025 The March cover of Bon Appetit features sunderkala, a take on a North Indian noodle dish at Naar, a restaurant in the Himalayan foothills. —Sarah Khan, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 Apr. 2025

The healthcare provider may ask about your sleep habits and request a sleep diary. —Allison Herries, Verywell Health, 31 Mar. 2025

Keeping a bladder diary that tracks evening foods and drinks can help pinpoint hidden triggers. —Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 26 Mar. 2025

The scribbled entries became Angela's diary of domestic abuse. —Jonathan Vigliotti, CBS News, 16 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin diarium, from dies day — more at deity

First Known Use

1581, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing diary

• keep a diary

Rhymes for diary

• fiery
• friary
• priory

Kids Definition

diary

noun

di·​a·​ry ˈdī-(ə-)rē 

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