off peak etymology

Etymology

  • "Off" (adverb): away from or not at a specified place, time, or level
  • "Peak" (noun): the highest point or level

Meaning

"Off peak" refers to a period of time outside of the peak hours when demand and prices for a particular service or product are lower.

Origin

The term "off peak" originated in the early 20th century, particularly in the context of electricity usage. During peak hours, such as early mornings and evenings when people typically use more electricity for household appliances and lighting, demand and prices were higher. Utility companies introduced "off peak" rates to encourage consumers to shift their electricity usage to less busy periods, such as late nights and weekends, when demand was lower and prices could be reduced.

Over time, the term "off peak" was extended to other areas, including transportation, retail, and telecommunications. It now generally refers to any period of time when demand and prices for a particular service or product are lower.

Examples

  • Electricity: Off-peak electricity rates are available during times when demand is low, such as late at night or on weekends.
  • Transportation: Off-peak fares for public transportation are often offered during less crowded periods, such as early mornings or late evenings.
  • Retail: Off-season sales and discounts are common in retail stores during periods when customer demand is lower.
  • Telecommunications: Off-peak rates for phone calls or internet usage may be offered during nighttime or weekend hours.

off peak relate terms

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  • widow

    Etymology Middle English widewe from Old English widuwe ultimately from Latin viduus

  • culmination

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  • acromegaly

    Etymology and Meaning The word acromegaly is derived from Greek ἄκρος akros

  • Galicia

    Etymology The name Galicia comes from the Latin word Callaecia which was the name o

  • culminate

    Etymology Latin culmināre to reach the top come to a climax from culmen top sum

  • surmise

    Etymology Old French surmiser Late Latin supermisare to think over Latin supe

  • humor

    Etymology The word humor derives from the Latin word humor meaning liquid or mois

  • compassion

    Etymology Latin compassio suffering together com with together passio su

  • chagrin

    Etymology The word chagrin comes from the Old French word chagriner meaning to anno