Nocturnal
Nocturnal , adjective
[Latin nocturnalis, nocturnus, from nox, noctis, night. See Night, and compare Nocturn.]
1.
Of, pertaining to, done or occurring in, the night; as, nocturnal darkness, cries, expedition, etc.; -- opposed to diurnal. — Dryden
2.
Having a habit of seeking food or moving about at night; as, nocturnal birds and insects; raccoons are nocturnal.; -- of animals.
Nocturnal , noun
An instrument formerly used for taking the altitude of the stars, etc., at sea. — I. Watts