Pronunciation: [bˈɛdta͡ɪm] (IPA) 
The word "bedtime" is spelled as /ˈbɛdˌtaɪm/. The first syllable 'bed' is pronounced with a short 'e' sound /ɛ/ and the 'd' is pronounced with a slight aspiration. The second syllable 'time' is pronounced with a long 'i' sound /taɪm/. The 'e' at the end of the first syllable is pronounced with a schwa /ə/ sound, which means it is a weak vowel sound. The spelling of 'bedtime' indicates its meaning - the time at which one goes to bed.
Bedtime refers to the designated or preferred time at which an individual is expected to go to bed in order to sleep. It is the period of the evening or night when a person typically prepares for and retires to bed, signaling the end of daily activities. This term is commonly used to describe the routine followed by children before going to sleep, but it is also applicable to adults.
The concept of bedtime emphasizes the importance of establishing a regular sleep schedule, which is crucial for maintaining one's overall health and well-being. It enables individuals to achieve the recommended amount of sleep, which can vary depending on factors such as age, lifestyle, and individual preferences.
Bedtime rituals often involve a sequence of activities to help relax the mind and body, such as brushing teeth, changing into sleepwear, reading a book, or listening to soft music. These actions prepare the body for sleep and provide a sense of routine and comfort. Additionally, setting a consistent bedtime allows the body's internal clock, also known as the circadian rhythm, to adjust, promoting better sleep quality and overall sleep hygiene.
While bedtime guidelines may vary based on individual needs and cultural practices, it generally serves as a reminder to prioritize rest and rejuvenation. By adhering to a regular bedtime routine, individuals can optimize their sleep patterns, ultimately contributing to their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "bedtime" has a relatively straightforward etymology. It is a compound word formed from the combination of two separate words: "bed" and "time".
"Bed" comes from the Old English word "bedd", which has Germanic roots. It has cognates in various other Germanic languages, such as German "Bett" and Dutch "bed", all ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*badjaz".
"Time" can be traced back to the Old English word "tīma", also of Germanic origin. It shares its roots with the Old Norse word "tími", Old High German "zīman", and Gothic "timē", all stemming from the Proto-Germanic word "*tīmô".
