Ever seen the word “matinee” on a movie poster or event schedule and wondered what it really means?
You’re not alone! Whether it’s a theater performance, a film screening, or even a concert, the word matinee often pops up when something happens earlier in the day.
In this article, you’ll learn:
The definition of matinee
Its origin and history in entertainment
How it’s used in movies, theater, and daily conversation
Examples and common phrases with “matinee”
FAQs to clear up confusions
🎟️ What Does Matinee Mean?
A matinee is a daytime performance or show, typically held in the afternoon rather than in the evening.
The term is most commonly used for movies, plays, and concerts.
For example:
“We caught the matinee showing of the new Marvel movie at 2 PM.”
It’s a formal noun, not slang or an abbreviation, and is widely used in English-speaking countries, especially in entertainment industries.
🕰️ Origin and Popularity
The word matinee comes from the French word “matinée,” which literally means “morning.”
Over time, English adopted the term to refer to performances held earlier in the day—usually between late morning and early evening.
Quick Timeline:
- 18th century (France): “Matinée” referred to morning social gatherings.
- 19th century (England & America): Adopted by theaters for daytime performances.
- 20th–21st century: Commonly used in cinemas and entertainment listings to distinguish early shows from evening ones.
Today, “matinee” remains popular in the film and performing arts industries and is often associated with discounted or family-friendly showtimes.
🎭 Matinee Meaning in Different Contexts
The meaning of matinee can vary slightly depending on where it’s used.
🍿 In Movies or Cinemas
Refers to early film screenings, often before 6 PM.
Example: “Matinee tickets are cheaper than evening shows.”
🎤 In Theatre or Concerts
Describes daytime stage performances, usually on weekends or holidays.
Example: “The theater offers a Sunday matinee for families.”
🏫 In Daily Speech or Writing
Sometimes used metaphorically to describe something happening earlier in the day or as a light version of a main event.
Example: “We had a mini matinee before the big evening party.”
| Context | Matinee Meaning | Example Usage |
| Movies | Early film screening | “The 3 PM matinee is half price.” |
| Theatre | Daytime play or show | “Catch the matinee before dinner.” |
| Daily Use | Early event or preview | “It was like a matinee version of the festival.” |
💬 Examples of Matinee in Conversations
Example 1:
Friend 1: Want to watch the new Pixar movie?
Friend 2: Sure! Let’s go to the 2 PM matinee—it’s cheaper.
Example 2:
“I love matinee shows. They’re quieter, less crowded, and perfect for weekends.”
Example 3:
“The matinee performance of The Lion King was completely sold out.”
Example 4 (formal usage):
“Due to popular demand, an additional matinee will be held this Saturday.”
🔄 Similar or Related Terms
Here are some related entertainment terms often used with or instead of “matinee”:
| Term | Meaning |
| Premiere | The first showing of a movie or play. |
| Showtime | The scheduled start time of a performance. |
| Double Feature | Two movies shown back-to-back. |
| Evening Show | The later performance, typically after 6 PM. |
These terms are commonly seen in cinema listings and event advertisements.
🧭 How to Use “Matinee” Correctly
Here are some quick do’s and don’ts for using the term properly:
✅ Do:
- Use “matinee” when referring to early-day performances.
- Say “matinee show” or “matinee performance” for clarity.
- Use it in formal or neutral settings (theater, cinema, event ads).
❌ Don’t:
- Use “matinee” for morning-only events—it typically means afternoon.
- Use it as slang or abbreviation (it’s a standard English word).
- Confuse it with “premiere” (which means the first showing).
⚠️ Common Mistakes or Misinterpretations
- Thinking matinee means “morning show.”
→ Reality: It’s usually an afternoon performance, not early morning. - Assuming it only applies to movies.
→ Reality: “Matinee” can describe plays, operas, or concerts too. - Using it casually for any event.
→ Reality: The term is specific to entertainment or performances.
❓ FAQ Section
1. What does “matinee” mean in movies?
A matinee in movies refers to an early screening, typically between 12 PM and 5 PM, often offered at a discounted price.
2. Is a matinee only for theaters?
No. While it started in live theater, the word is now used for cinemas, concerts, and other live events held during the day.
3. Why are matinee shows cheaper?
Matinee tickets are often discounted to encourage attendance during less busy daytime hours.
4. What time does a matinee usually start?
Most matinees begin between noon and 4 PM, though exact times vary by venue.
5. What’s the opposite of a matinee?
The evening show or night performance is the opposite of a matinee.
6. How do you pronounce “matinee”?
It’s pronounced “MAT-uh-nay” — with emphasis on the first syllable.
🌇 Conclusion
In short, matinee means a daytime performance or screening, most commonly used in movies, theater, and concerts.
The word has French origins and continues to represent early, accessible, and family-friendly entertainment across the world.
🎞️ Now that you know the matinee meaning, you’ll never miss an early show again!
Keep exploring our site for more fun explanations of popular terms and entertainment expressions.
Jon McGregor is a language and word-meaning expert at Meanovia.com. He specializes in explaining complex words, phrases, and modern language trends in a clear, approachable style. His mission is to help readers quickly grasp the true meaning behind every term, making language learning and understanding effortless and engaging.
