Drift off Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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drift off

[drɪft ɒf ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

phrasal verb

To gradually fall asleep or start daydreaming, especially when you are not intending to.

Synonyms

drop off, nod off, zone out.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
drift off	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
nod off	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
drop off	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
zone out	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

Examples of usage

I drifted off during the boring meeting.
She drifted off while reading a book.
Don't drift off while driving, it's dangerous.
I always drift off in the middle of a movie.
He drifted off into a deep sleep.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Sleep experts say that drifting off involves transitioning through different stages of sleep, which is crucial for rest.
People often drift off during relaxing activities such as reading or listening to soothing music, indicating the importance of environment on sleep onset.
The brain's activity decreases as a person drifts off, leading to a state of restfulness where thoughts may begin to fade.

Cultural Aspects

In many cultures, rituals before bed, like storytelling or sharing dreams, help individuals drift off peacefully.
Songs and lullabies often aim to help children drift off by creating a calm atmosphere conducive to sleep.
The concept of 'napping' is culturally significant in places like Spain, where a short period of rest after lunch is common and encouraged.

Pop Culture

Movies frequently depict characters drifting off in cozy settings, reinforcing the idea of comfort and safety associated with sleep.
The phrase has been used in lyrics from various songs, often symbolizing longing or escaping reality.
In literature, authors describe characters drifting off as a metaphor for escaping their troubles or entering dreams.

Science

Studies show that having a consistent bedtime routine helps people drift off faster and achieve better sleep quality.
Research indicates that the average adult takes about 10-20 minutes to drift off after turning the lights out.
When drifting off, the body goes through a series of physiological changes, such as slowed heart rate and dropping body temperature.

Origin of 'drift off'

Main points about word origin

The word 'drift' comes from the Old Norse 'drifta,' which means to drive or to move.
In the early 18th century, the phrase 'drift off' began to be associated with slowly falling asleep.
The idea of drifting suggests a gentle and relaxed movement, much like how someone might feel while easing into sleep.

The expression 'drift off' originated in the 19th century, combining 'drift' (move slowly or aimlessly) with 'off' (away). It initially referred to ships slowly moving away from a particular point, but later evolved to mean gradually falling asleep or daydreaming.