The phrase "crack of dawn" is a common expression which means to wake up very early in the morning. It is often misspelled as "crack dawn." The correct IPA phonetic transcription for this phrase is /kræk əv dɔːn/. The first part of the phrase, "crack," is pronounced with a short "a" sound as in "cat," while the second part, "dawn," is pronounced with a long "o" sound as in "cone." Together, they form a popular phrase that indicates a very early start to the day.
"Crack of dawn" is a commonly used idiomatic expression to denote the early hours of morning, specifically referring to the moment at which the first light shines through the darkness of night. It signifies the instant when the sky starts to brighten as the sun prepares to rise above the horizon. The term "crack" refers to a sudden or precise occurrence, while "dawn" characterizes the beginning or emergence of daylight.
The phrase is often utilized metaphorically to emphasize the timeliness or punctuality of an action or event. It conveys the idea of being awake and active during the earliest moments of the day, corresponding to the moment when sunlight appears and night transitions into day. The "crack of dawn" commonly denotes a time when people typically awaken, start their day, or engage in activities that require an early start.
This expression can also connote a sense of freshness and new beginnings, heralding the start of a brand new day. It can evoke a feeling of calmness, tranquility, and a sense of promise or anticipation for adventures yet to come. Whether describing the beauty of a sunrise or signifying the promptness in commencing a task, "crack of dawn" encapsulates the moment of transition from darkness to light, marking the beginning of a day full of possibilities.
The term "crack of dawn" is believed to have originated from a combination of two separate idiomatic expressions: "crack" and "dawn".
1. "Crack" - In this context, "crack" refers to the sound that an object makes when it breaks or opens suddenly. It has been used in English since the 14th century and has various meanings, including a sharp sound, a sudden break, or a clever remark. In the phrase "crack of dawn", "crack" is used metaphorically to describe the moment when daylight seems to forcefully break through the darkness.
2. "Dawn" - The word "dawn" originates from the Old English word "dagian", meaning "to become day" or "to grow light". Over time, "dagian" evolved into "dawn", which specifically refers to the beginning of daylight.