Sleep Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
sleep
[sliหp ]
Definitions
a state of rest for the body and mind
Sleep is a naturally recurring state of mind and body, characterized by altered consciousness, relatively inhibited sensory activity, reduced muscle activity, and inhibition of nearly all voluntary muscles during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sleep |
General state of being asleep, typically used to refer to the nightly routine.
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| slumber |
A poetic or formal term for sleep, often suggesting a peaceful and deep state of sleep.
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| rest |
A period of relaxation or inactivity to regain energy, which doesn't necessarily mean sleeping.
|
| nap |
A short period of sleep, usually during the day, to refresh oneself.
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Examples of usage
- I need to get more sleep to feel refreshed in the morning.
- He fell asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow.
to be in a state of rest for the body and mind
To sleep is to regularly and naturally engage in the state of rest for the body and mind, often accompanied by a loss of consciousness and reduced bodily functions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sleep |
Used in a general sense when referring to the natural, prolonged period of rest for the body and mind that occurs regularly every night.
|
| doze |
Refers to a light or short sleep, especially during the daytime or in a sitting position. It often implies a brief, unintentional sleep.
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| nap |
Used to describe a short sleep, usually taken during the day. It is typically more intentional and planned than a doze.
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| rest |
Refers to a period of relaxation or being inactive, which may or may not include sleep. It is a broader term that can also mean taking a break from activities.
|
Examples of usage
- I like to sleep for at least 8 hours every night.
- The baby sleeps peacefully in her crib.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- During sleep, the body repairs muscles, replenishes energy, and releases hormones that help growth.
- A human typically spends about one-third of their life sleeping, which is essential for health and well-being.
- Dreaming occurs mainly during a phase of sleep called REM (Rapid Eye Movement), which is important for memory and learning.
Cultural Practices
- In Japanese culture, it's common to take short naps called 'inemuri' to boost productivity.
- Many cultures have specific rituals around bedtime, from storytelling to meditative practices, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful sleep environment.
- In ancient Rome, sleep was seen as a divine state, and certain deities were worshiped for protection during sleep.
Psychology
- Sleep deprivation can lead to mood swings and impair cognitive functions like memory and decision-making.
- Patterns of sleep can reflect stress levels; disrupted sleep may indicate underlying mental health issues.
- The science of dreaming, known as oneirology, explores why we dream and what our dreams can signify about our fears and desires.
Technology
- Wearable devices track sleep patterns, helping users understand their sleep quality and make improvements.
- Apps for relaxation and guided meditations are popular for improving sleep hygiene and reducing insomnia.
- Artificial intelligence is now used to analyze sleep data, optimizing sleep environments for better rest.
Literature
- Many poets and writers have drawn inspiration from sleep, using it as a metaphor for peace, loss, and unconscious desires.
- Literary works often depict sleep as a form of escape or transformation, as seen in stories like 'Sleeping Beauty.'
- The phrase 'let me sleep on it' highlights the idea that solutions or ideas may become clearer after a restful night.
Origin of 'sleep'
The word 'sleep' has its origins in Old English 'slรฆpan' which means 'to be or lie in a restful state'. Over time, the word evolved to 'sleep' in Middle English. The concept of sleep has been an essential part of human life since ancient times, with various cultural beliefs and practices surrounding it. Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining physical and mental health, and has been the subject of scientific study and research for centuries.