ˈɡreɪvjɑːrd ʃɪft
Work
informal
intermediate
- Literally:
- A work shift in a graveyard
What does "graveyard shift" mean?
- The late-night or overnight work shift, typically midnight to 8 AM
- Working hours during the quietest part of the night
Examples
- I worked the graveyard shift at the hospital for years.
- The convenience store needs someone for the graveyard shift.
- Working the graveyard shift takes a toll on your health.
Origin
Several theories: from watchmen guarding graveyards at night, or because the streets are as quiet as a graveyard during these hours. First recorded in the early 20th century.
How to use it
Common workplace term. Often associated with difficult or undesirable working hours.
Similar expressions
night shift
overnight shift
third shift
Opposites
day shift
morning shift
first shift
Related idioms
- hit the nail on the head
To describe exactly what is true or important
- call it a day
To stop working for the day
- have one's hands full
To be very busy with something
- learn the ropes
To learn the basics of a job or activity
- it's not rocket science
It's not difficult to understand or do
- get your act together
To organize yourself and start behaving more responsibly
Use it in a practice answer
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