Noc*tur"nal (?), a. [L. nocturnalis, nocturnus, fr. nox, noctis, night. See Night, and cf. Nocturn.]

1.

Of, pertaining to, done or occuring in, the night; as, nocturnal darkness, cries, expedition, etc.; -- opposed to diurnal.

Dryden.

2.

Having a habit of seeking food or moving about at night; as, nocturnal birds and insects.

 

© Webster 1913.


Noc*tur"nal, n.

An instrument formerly used for taking the altitude of the stars, etc., at sea.

I. Watts.

 

© Webster 1913.