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Drowsed: meaning, definitions and examples

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drowsed

 

[ draʊzd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Drowsed is the past tense of the verb drowse, which means to be in a light sleep or to doze off. It refers to a state of being half asleep or nodding off, typically during times of inactivity or boredom. This word captures the essence of drifting in and out of light sleep rather than being in a deep, restorative slumber. Drowsed can be used to describe moments when someone unintentionally falls asleep for a brief period.

Synonyms

dozed, nodded off, slept lightly

Examples of usage

  • I drowsed on the couch during the movie.
  • She drowsed while reading her book by the fireplace.
  • He drowsed off in the lecture and missed important information.
  • The warm sun made him drowsed in the afternoon.
  • The child drowsed in his mother's lap.

Etymology

The term 'drowse' comes from Middle English 'drosen,' which is derived from the Old English 'drosian,' meaning to slumber or to fall asleep. The word has Germanic origins, closely related to similar terms in other Germanic languages, such as the Dutch 'drosen' and Old High German 'druson.' Initially used to describe a light or fitful sleep, 'drowse' has evolved over centuries to encompass the action of dozing off, particularly in situations marked by warmth and comfort. The past tense form 'drowsed' emerged as the English language developed, fitting into regular conjugation patterns. Drowsing is often associated with a relaxed environment, highlighting the connection between physical comfort and the propensity to sleep lightly.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,837, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.