Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Drowsy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜ด
Add to dictionary

drowsy

[หˆdraสŠzi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling sleepy

Feeling drowsy is a common side effect of taking certain medications, such as antihistamines. It is characterized by a strong desire to sleep or feeling sluggish and lacking energy. Drowsiness can also be caused by a lack of sleep or disrupted sleep patterns.

Synonyms

lethargic, sleepy, sluggish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
drowsy

Often used when someone feels a strong need to sleep, usually due to medication or being in a relaxing environment.

  • After taking the medicine, he felt drowsy
  • The warm sun made everyone feel drowsy
sleepy

Used when someone needs rest and is on the verge of falling asleep. It is straightforward and commonly used.

  • She was so sleepy that she could barely keep her eyes open
  • The baby got sleepy after the long day at the park
sluggish

Describes a lack of energy or slow movement, often because of tiredness, illness, or a heavy workload. It can be negative when describing someone's performance or behavior.

  • He felt sluggish after eating a big meal
  • The economy has been sluggish this quarter, showing little growth
lethargic

Describes a state of being unusually lazy or slow, often due to illness or lack of motivation. It has a slightly more negative connotation.

  • After his illness, he felt lethargic all day
  • The heat made the dog lethargic and disinterested in playing

Examples of usage

  • I felt drowsy after taking the allergy medication.
  • She yawned, feeling increasingly drowsy as the lecture dragged on.
  • The warm room made him drowsy and he struggled to stay awake.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • The brain produces the hormone melatonin, which helps regulate sleepiness, often making us feel drowsy when it's dark.
  • Sleep studies indicate that lack of sleep causes drowsiness, significantly affecting attention and reactions, akin to being under the influence of alcohol.
  • Drowsiness can signal the bodyโ€™s need for rest, and recognizing it can prevent accidents and improve overall well-being.

Culture

  • In storytelling, characters often become drowsy before major plot twists, symbolizing vulnerability or a shift in reality.
  • Many cultures have lullabies, songs designed to make children feel drowsy and fall asleep peacefully.
  • The concept of 'afternoon drowsiness' is common worldwide, leading to practices like the siesta in some cultures, merging work with necessary rest.

Psychology

  • Drowsiness is often linked to emotional states, where feelings of sadness or boredom can increase fatigue and sleepiness.
  • Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can combat drowsiness, promoting alertness and engagement.
  • Drowsiness can be indicative of mental overload; taking breaks and ensuring balanced activities can help maintain energy levels.

Health

  • Chronic drowsiness can be a symptom of sleep disorders like insomnia or sleep apnea, emphasizing the importance of healthy sleep habits.
  • Certain medications may cause increased drowsiness, highlighting the need for caution when driving or operating machinery.
  • Nutrition plays a significant role; diets high in sugars can lead to quick spikes in energy followed by sharp drowsiness.

Origin of 'drowsy'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'drowsy' comes from the Middle English word 'drous', which means lazy or heavy.
  • It is related to the Old Norse word 'druรฐr', meaning sleep, showing its long connection to tiredness and sleepiness.
  • In various languages, similar words for 'drowsy' often relate to sleep or being weighed down, indicating a universal understanding of tiredness.

The word 'drowsy' originated in the late Middle English period, derived from the Old English word 'drลซsian' meaning 'to be languid or slow'. Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass the feeling of sleepiness or sluggishness. The use of 'drowsy' to describe the state of feeling sleepy or lacking energy became more common in the 17th century.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,101, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.