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

Now, both Rose and Alexander hope to read Boss’s diaries for themselves. —Sara Vallone, Miami Herald, 12 Feb. 2025

When creating the outfits for the first 2001 Bridget Jones cast, Fleming sought to give Jones — whose diary entries detailed her romantic adventures, weight, and alcohol and cigarette consumption — a pragmatic, somewhat disheveled look that would feel relatable to busy women. —Kati Chitrakorn, CNN, 12 Feb. 2025

Nearly 24 years ago, the movie starring Zellweger as that young, single, British woman who started a diary was released. —H. Alan Scott, Newsweek, 12 Feb. 2025

Keep a sleep diary for one to two weeks before your sleep study to document your sleep habits. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 12 Feb. 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

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