Word: diurnal (adjective)

Associations

The word "diurnal" relates to things that happen during the daytime or are active in the day.

• Animals that are awake and active during the day are called diurnal animals, like birds and squirrels.
• In weather, diurnal temperature changes mean the difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures.
• Plants that open their flowers only during the day are described as having diurnal rhythms.

A well-known synonym is "daily," but "daily" means something happens every day, while "diurnal" specifically means happening during the day (not night).

Substitution

Instead of "diurnal," you can sometimes say:

• "daytime" – for example, "daytime animals" instead of "diurnal animals."
• "active during the day" – more descriptive but longer. Using "daily" would change the meaning because it focuses on frequency, not time of day.

Deconstruction

"Diurnal" comes from Latin "diurnalis," which comes from "diurnus" meaning "of the day."

• Root: "diurn-" relates to "day."
• Suffix: "-al" means "related to" or "pertaining to." So, "diurnal" literally means "pertaining to the day."

Inquiry

• Can you think of animals or activities in your life that are diurnal?
• How would your daily routine change if you were nocturnal (active at night) instead of diurnal?
• Why do you think some plants or animals have diurnal behaviors?