witching hour
The term "witching hour" originates from folklore and has expanded to various modern contexts, often signifying a time of heightened activity or supernatural events.
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Definition
B2Folklore
(literary, poetic)The time around midnight when supernatural beings are believed to be most active.
Example
- According to legends, the witching hour is when witches cast their spells.
C1Occult
(technical)The period between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m., associated with demonic activity.
Example
- Some occultists believe that demonic activities peak during the witching hour.
B2Parenting
(informal, colloquial)A time, usually in the early evening, when babies are more likely to be fussy and cry.
Example
- Parents dread the witching hour because it's when their babies become inconsolable.
C1Finance
(technical, US)The last hour of trading each month when certain stock options expire, leading to increased trading volume and volatility.
Example
- Traders prepare for the witching hour, anticipating a surge in market activity.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "witching hour":