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Drowsiness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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drowsiness

[หˆdraสŠzi.nษ™s ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

state of being

Drowsiness refers to a state of feeling sleepy or lethargic and is often characterized by reduced alertness and a tendency to fall asleep. It can be caused by various factors including lack of sleep, medication, or certain health conditions. Drowsiness can impair cognitive and motor functions, which may affect daily activities. It is important to address the underlying causes of drowsiness to ensure safety and well-being.

Synonyms

fatigue, lethargy, sleepiness, somnolence.

Examples of usage

  • He experienced drowsiness after taking the medication.
  • Drowsiness can lead to accidents if driving.
  • She fought against drowsiness during the lecture.
  • Drowsiness is a common symptom of sleep deprivation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Drowsiness can be caused by a lack of sleep, poor sleep quality, or certain medical conditions.
  • The brain produces a chemical called adenosine, which builds up while you are awake and contributes to that sleepy feeling.
  • Drowsiness can be a safety concern, especially for drivers and people operating machinery, as it can impair judgment and reaction times.

Health

  • Chronic drowsiness can be a sign of sleep disorders like sleep apnea or narcolepsy, where people might feel very sleepy during the day.
  • Healthy sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, can help reduce feelings of drowsiness.

Psychology

  • Drowsiness can affect your mood, making people feel irritable or less focused.
  • Taking short naps can help alleviate drowsiness and boost mood and productivity.

Cultural References

  • In various cultures, drowsiness is often depicted in folktales and cartoons where characters nod off at the most unexpected moments.
  • Drowsiness has inspired many artists and writers to create works that evoke the themes of rest and dreams.

Origin of 'drowsiness'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'drosian,' meaning 'to be sleepy or drowsy.'
  • It has been used in English since the 14th century, showing how long this feeling has existed in human experience.

The word 'drowsiness' originates from the Middle English term 'drousynes', which itself comes from the Old English 'drลซgian' meaning 'to be sluggish or heavy'. This reflects the state of being in a sleepy or lethargic condition. The suffix '-ness' is used to form nouns that denote a state or quality. Over the centuries, drowsiness has been associated with various emotional and physical states, including the effects of long work hours, poor sleep quality, and certain medical conditions. The understanding of drowsiness has evolved, with increased awareness of its impact on health and safety, especially in contexts such as driving or operating machinery.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,436, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.