The correct spelling of the phrase "twelve noon" involves the use of the letter "o" for the second syllable. In IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription, this is represented as /tuːlv nuːn/. The "oo" sound is commonly replaced with a single "o" in casual speech or writing, leading to the incorrect spelling "twelve noon". It is important to use the correct spelling to maintain accuracy in written communication.
Twelve noon refers to the time of day when the clock strikes twelve and it is considered the exact middle of the day. It is specifically used to denote the period of time between morning and afternoon. The term "noon" itself is derived from the Latin term "nona hora" which means "ninth hour" in English. This is because, in ancient Roman times, the first hour was considered the sunrise, and hence the ninth hour was deemed the middle of the day.
Twelve noon is commonly used in the 12-hour clock system, which is widely used in English-speaking countries. It differentiates the time after midnight from the time after midday. While both antemeridian (AM) and postmeridian (PM) times are commonly used, "twelve noon" specifically refers to the time when the sun is at its highest point in the sky around midday.
This specific term is important in order to provide precise timing and avoid confusion between morning and afternoon hours. It serves as a universally recognized reference point for scheduling and coordinating activities. Twelve noon can be denoted using "12:00 PM" in the 12-hour clock system. However, it is important to note that "12:00 PM" can sometimes be used ambiguously, referring to either noon or midnight. To avoid misunderstandings, "12:00 noon" or simply "noon" can be used to specifically indicate the time when the clock strikes twelve during the day.
The word "noon" comes from the Old English word "non", which meant "3 p.m". The word "twelve" comes from the Old English word "twelf", derived from "twā" (two) and "lf" (leftover, remainder). Therefore, "twelve noon" refers to the time when there are two hours left (until the end of the day), which is midday or 12 p.m.