nightcap

noun

night·​cap ˈnīt-ˌkap How to pronounce nightcap (audio)
1
: a cloth cap worn with nightclothes
2
: a usually alcoholic drink taken at the end of the day
3
: the final race or contest of a day's sports
especially : the second game of a baseball doubleheader

Examples of nightcap in a Sentence

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.
The nightcap between Houston and Duke is scheduled for an 8:49 p.m. start. Ron Estes, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2025 The tradition of enjoying a drink to promote better rest — known as a nightcap — dates to the early 18th century. Andrew Torgan, CNN, 23 Mar. 2025 Florida now moves on to the second round to face the winner of the day’s nightcap between two-time defending national champion UConn and SEC newcomer Oklahoma. Edgar Thompson, Orlando Sentinel, 22 Mar. 2025 Hit up Upland for our favorite local beer and great food, then stop by the Inferno Room, an over-the-top tiki bar, on your way back downtown for a nightcap. Arika Herron, Axios, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nightcap

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of nightcap was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Nightcap.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nightcap. Accessed 9 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

nightcap

noun
night·​cap ˈnīt-ˌkap How to pronounce nightcap (audio)
1
: a cap worn with nightclothes
2
: a drink taken at bedtime
3
: the final race or contest of a day's sports activities

More from Merriam-Webster on nightcap

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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