Dreaming: meaning, definitions and examples
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dreaming
[ˈdriːmɪŋ ]
Definition
while sleeping
Dreaming is the act of experiencing imaginary events and sensations while asleep. It involves a series of images, ideas, emotions, and sensations that usually occur involuntarily in the mind during certain stages of sleep.
Synonyms
daydreaming, fantasizing, hallucinating.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dreaming |
Dreaming typically refers to the thoughts and images that occur while sleeping. It’s a normal part of sleep and can involve a mix of real experiences and imagination.
|
| fantasizing |
Fantasizing involves imagining elaborate or fanciful scenarios, often with an element of wishful thinking. It can be intentional and is typically positive, though unrealistic.
|
| daydreaming |
Daydreaming occurs when someone is awake and their mind wanders away from the present moment to think about absent or future scenarios. It is often unintentional and can happen during monotonous activities.
|
| hallucinating |
Hallucinating refers to seeing or hearing things that are not present, usually as a result of mental illness, drug use, or extreme situations. It has a negative connotation as it implies a detachment from reality.
|
Examples of usage
- I was dreaming about flying last night.
- She often dreams of traveling the world.
- He was deep in dreaming when suddenly awakened.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from Old English 'drēam', meaning joy or music, showing that dreams were once linked to happiness.
- Ancient Egyptians believed dreams were messages from the gods, leading them to build dream interpretation systems.
- In many ancient cultures, dreams were seen as a way to predict the future or connect with the spiritual world.
Science
- Most dreaming happens during a sleep stage called REM (Rapid Eye Movement), where the brain is very active.
- Studies suggest that people forget around 95% of their dreams shortly after waking up.
- Dreams can have beneficial effects on our mood and creativity, helping with problem-solving and emotional processing.
Psychology
- Sigmund Freud famously called dreams the 'royal road to the unconscious,' believing they revealed hidden desires.
- Carl Jung thought dreams reflected our inner thoughts and feelings, connecting us to our deeper selves.
- Nightmares can be a way for our brains to process fears and anxiety, often bringing unresolved issues to light.
Pop Culture
- In literature, dreams have been a powerful narrative device, such as in Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'.
- Films like 'Inception' explore the concept of manipulating dreams and the overlap between dreams and reality.
- Songs like 'Dream On' by Aerosmith highlight the importance of pursuing one's dreams and aspirations.
Art
- Many artists, such as Salvador Dalí, were inspired by their dreams, creating surreal images that evoke dream-like states.
- Dreams have been a subject in paintings from different periods, often used to express subconscious thoughts and emotions.
- Dream landscapes in art allow viewers to reflect on their own interpretations of dreams and reality.
Translations
Translations of the word "dreaming" in other languages:
🇵🇹 sonhando
🇮🇳 सपने देखना
🇩🇪 träumen
🇮🇩 bermimpi
🇺🇦 мріяти
🇵🇱 śnić
🇯🇵 夢を見る (yume o miru)
🇫🇷 rêver
🇪🇸 soñar
🇹🇷 rüya görmek
🇰🇷 꿈꾸다 (kkumkkuda)
🇸🇦 يحلم (yahlam)
🇨🇿 sní
🇸🇰 snívať
🇨🇳 做梦 (zuò mèng)
🇸🇮 sanjati
🇮🇸 dreyma
🇰🇿 түс көру
🇬🇪 ოცნება (ocneba)
🇦🇿 arzulamaq
🇲🇽 soñar
Word Frequency Rank
Position #9,777 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.
- ...
- 9774 floated
- 9775 contributory
- 9776 totaled
- 9777 dreaming
- 9778 authenticity
- 9779 hymn
- 9780 gal
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