diary
n. · v.-
1 personal record (n.) A2 Elementarya book where you write down your private thoughts and what happens to you each day.
a daily record of personal experiences, observations, and reflections, typically intended for private use.
ExampleShe wrote in her diary every night before going to sleep.
ExampleThe historian discovered a hidden diary that provided a vivid, first-hand account of life during the occupation.
PitfallI bought some fresh milk at the diary.I bought some fresh milk at the dairy.Do not confuse 'diary' (a book for writing) with 'dairy' (related to milk).
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2 appointment book (n.) B1 Intermediate British Englisha book or app used to record future appointments and meetings.
a calendar or personal organiser used to schedule future engagements and deadlines.
ExampleLet me check my diary to see if I am free for lunch next Tuesday.
ExampleThe executive's diary was so tightly packed with back-to-back meetings that she barely had time for a coffee break.
UsageCommonly used in British English where American English speakers would prefer 'calendar' or 'planner'.
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3 to record an event (v.) C1 Advanced Formalto write something down in a diary or to schedule a meeting.
to enter an appointment or event into a diary; to maintain a regular journal of activities.
ExampleWe need to diary a follow-up meeting for next month.
ExampleThe legal team was instructed to diary every interaction with the client to ensure a complete paper trail for the audit.
UsageOften used as a transitive verb in professional or legal contexts.
From Latin diārium (“a daily allowance for soldiers, in Late Latin also ‘diary’”), neuter of *diārius, from diēs (“a day”) (whence also journal). Cognate with Spanish diario (“daily; diary”).
From Latin diārius.