Noon typically refers to the exact moment when the clock strikes 12:00 PM (midday). It is the point in time when the morning transitions into the afternoon. However, the term "noon" is sometimes used more loosely to refer to the period between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, or even a few minutes before or after 12:00 PM. The exact interpretation can vary based on cultural, regional, or personal preferences.