Pronunciation: [sˈɛntɹə͡l dˈe͡ɪla͡ɪt tˈa͡ɪm] (IPA) 
Correct spelling for the English word "Central Daylight Time" is [sˈɛntɹə͡l dˈe͡ɪla͡ɪt tˈa͡ɪm], [sˈɛntɹəl dˈeɪlaɪt tˈaɪm], [s_ˈɛ_n_t_ɹ_əl d_ˈeɪ_l_aɪ_t t_ˈaɪ_m] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Central Daylight Time (CDT) is a time zone observed in certain regions of North America during the daylight saving time period. It is five hours behind the Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5). The term "Central" refers to the geographical region in which this time zone is primarily used, namely the central part of North America, including parts of the United States and Canada.
CDT is the time followed by regions in the central time zone during the spring and summer months when daylight saving time is in effect. In the United States, it is observed in states including Texas, Illinois, Missouri, Louisiana, and Oklahoma, among others. Similarly, provinces in Canada such as Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and parts of Nunavut also adopt CDT during daylight saving time.
The primary purpose of daylight saving time, and therefore CDT, is to make better use of daylight during the summer months. This is achieved by moving the clock an hour forward, extending the evening daylight hours. Consequently, residents in the central time zone and other daylight saving time regions adjust their schedules accordingly to synchronize activities with the time change.
The switch from Standard Time to Central Daylight Time traditionally occurs in the spring, usually in March, and reverts back to Standard Time in the fall, typically in November. It is important to be aware of the correct time zone, be it Central Daylight Time or Central Standard Time, to prevent confusion in scheduling and communication.
