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Sleepiness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sleepiness

[ˈsliː.pɪ.nəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

feeling tired

Sleepiness is the state of being drowsy or lethargic, often characterized by a strong desire to sleep. It can be a natural part of the body's circadian rhythm or a result of insufficient rest. Prolonged sleepiness can impact daily activities and cognitive functions.

Synonyms

drowsiness, fatigue, lethargy, somnolence.

Examples of usage

  • She felt a wave of sleepiness after a long day at work.
  • The sleepiness in the afternoon often leads to a drop in productivity.
  • He struggled to fight off his sleepiness during the lecture.

Translations

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

Origin of 'sleepiness'

The word 'sleepiness' originated from the Old English term 'slyepan', meaning 'to sleep'. The formal adjective 'sleepy' dates back to the 14th century when it was used to describe someone in a state of drowsiness or slumber. The suffix '-ness' is added to form a noun, indicating a quality or state. This creates the term 'sleepiness' to denote the state of feeling sleepy. The word evolved through Middle English and has remained in use to describe the condition of needing or wanting to sleep. Today, sleepiness is often associated with various physiological and psychological factors, including sleep deprivation, circadian rhythms, and overall health.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,752, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.