time card: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

While 'time card' (two words) is the traditional and dictionary-listed form, 'timecard' as a single word is increasingly common, especially in digital contexts and corporate jargon. Both are understood.

They are often used interchangeably. Historically, a 'time card' was a specific punch card for clocking in/out, while a 'timesheet' was a broader form for logging hours, often for professionals. Today, the distinction is blurred, though 'timesheet' may imply more detail (e.g., tasks per project).

Typically, no. Time cards are primarily for hourly or non-exempt employees whose pay is directly tied to hours worked. Salaried (exempt) employees are usually not required to track hours in this way, though they may use timesheets for project tracking.

Yes, in informal business English, especially in American usage, it can be used as a verb meaning 'to record one's time on a time card' (e.g., 'Don't forget to time-card your overtime'). This is a back-formation and is more common in speech than formal writing.

A physical card or digital record used by an employee to record the hours they have worked.

Time card is usually business, administrative in register.

Time card: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtaɪm ˌkɑːd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtaɪm ˌkɑːrd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.