The expression "burner of midnight oil" refers to someone who works late into the night. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word "burner" would be spelled /ˈbɜːrnər/ and "midnight oil" would be spelled /ˌmɪdnaɪt ˈɔɪl/. The "b" in "burner" is pronounced with an unaspirated "b" sound, while the "r" is pronounced with a slightly rolled sound. In "midnight" the stress is on the first syllable, and the "o" sound in "oil" is pronounced as a diphthong, starting with an "ɔ" sound and ending with an "ɪ" sound.
The phrase "burner of midnight oil" is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone who works diligently late into the night, often sacrificing sleep and leisure time in order to complete tasks or achieve their goals.
This idiom finds its origin in the historical practice of using oil lamps or candles to provide light during the night. Before the advent of electric lighting, people would stay awake after sundown and continue working by burning these light sources. Thus, a "burner of midnight oil" is a dedicated individual who goes beyond the conventional work hours, displaying a strong commitment to their work or studies.
Typically, this phrase conveys a sense of discipline and persistence, highlighting the willingness to put in extra effort and hours to accomplish objectives. It implies that the individual is highly motivated, focused, and diligent in their pursuits, even when it means sacrificing rest and personal time.
The term is commonly used in professional contexts, such as describing an ambitious student studying late at night, an entrepreneur working into the early hours to meet deadlines, or a dedicated employee staying up to complete an important project. It emphasizes the determination and dedication of an individual who goes the extra mile to achieve their desired outcomes, often at the expense of their own well-being.