adjective
off-peak
off-PEEK
Off-peak (adjective) means happening at, or applying to, a time when demand is low — so usually quieter and cheaper. It is used most often of travel tickets, electricity tariffs, phone calls and gym or venue bookings. Example: “An off-peak return to Manchester is nearly half the price.”
adjective
1
Happening at, or applying to, a time when demand is low — so usually quieter and cheaper. It is used most often of travel tickets, electricity tariffs, phone calls and gym or venue bookings.
"An off-peak return to Manchester is nearly half the price."
"The tariff charges less for off-peak electricity used overnight."
adverb
1
During a period of low demand.
"If you can travel off-peak, do — the trains are empty."
How to use off-peak
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAt a quiet time of day, when things cost less.
When to use it
Neutral, everyday. Normally hyphenated before a noun.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
off-peak ticket
off-peak hours
off-peak rate
off-peak electricity
travel off-peak
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An _____ return to Manchester is nearly half the price.
Etymology
A compound of off and peak, peak here meaning the highest point of a demand curve.
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for off-peak
See all rhymes for off-peak →Frequently asked questions
What times count as off-peak?
There is no universal rule — each operator sets its own hours. On British railways off-peak typically means outside roughly 06:30–09:30 and 16:00–19:00 on weekdays, plus all day at weekends, but you should always check the restriction printed on the ticket.
What is the difference between off-peak and super off-peak?
Super off-peak is a narrower, cheaper band inside the off-peak period, usually the very quietest mid-morning, mid-afternoon or late-evening trains. An off-peak ticket is valid on more services; a super off-peak ticket saves more money but restricts you further.
What is the meaning of off-peak?
"off-peak" (adjective) means happening at, or applying to, a time when demand is low — so usually quieter and cheaper. It is used most often of travel tickets, electricity tariffs, phone calls and gym or venue bookings.
What is the opposite of off-peak?
Opposites of "off-peak" include peak, peak-time, rush-hour, at peak times.
