prime time

noun

, Radio and Television.

1. the hours, generally between 8 and 11 p.m., usually having the largest audience of the day.

prime time

noun

1. the peak viewing time on television, for which advertising rates are the highest

adjective

1. occurring during or designed for prime time

   a primetime drama

Word History and Origins

Origin of prime time¹

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

People can help protect themselves and mountain lions by being aware that dawn or dusk is prime time for mountain lion activity.

From Science Daily

"The tradition continues, partly because it's an absolutely prime time for retailers to be speaking to potential consumers," she said.

From BBC

The stage was set with Hollywood stars and other pro athletes on hand to see the Rams make a statement in prime time, except the Dolphins made L.A. look bad.

From Los Angeles Times

It is one of the most watched shows in the US and turned creator Taylor Sheridan into the king of prime time television.

From BBC

Arguably, most viewers of real-time election coverage are the age of majority, and can be trusted to choose for themselves in prime time as well as at the ballot box.

From Los Angeles Times