Noc-tûr'nal1, a.
a. [Lat. nocturnalis and nocturnus, from nox, night, noctu, by night; Pr. nocturnal, nocturn, Sp. nocturnal, nocturno, It. notturno, Fr. nocturne.] 1. Pertaining to, done, or occurring at night; as, nocturnal darkness, cries, expeditions, and the like.
From gilded roofs depending lamps display Nocturnal beams, that emulate the day. Dryden.
Sense 2. Having a habit of seeking food at night; as, nocturnal birds and insects.