Drift off: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when someone gradually falls asleep, often unintentionally. It implies a gentle and slow process of falling asleep.

• She drifted off while reading a book
• After the long hike, he quickly drifted off on the couch

This is used when someone falls asleep briefly, often in a sitting position or while trying to stay awake. It can sometimes carry a humorous or slightly negative connotation if the situation is inappropriate.

• She nodded off during the movie
• The employee nodded off at his desk after lunch

This is a more casual way to describe falling asleep and can imply that it happened suddenly or while doing something else.

• He dropped off during the lecture
• The baby finally dropped off after crying for hours

This describes a situation where someone loses focus or daydreams, rather than falling asleep. It can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation if it implies inattentiveness.

• He zoned out during the boring meeting
• She often zones out while staring out the window