Sleeping: meaning, definitions and examples

Used generally when someone is in the state of sleeping. It can denote the act of sleeping without any specific connotation or implication.

• He is sleeping soundly after a long day at work.
• Make sure not to disturb the baby while she’s sleeping.

Refers to the state of being in sleep. Often used to indicate that someone has already fallen asleep.

• She was already asleep when I got home.
• I think the dog is asleep in his bed.

A poetic or literary term for sleeping, which may give a sense of peacefulness and deep sleep.

• The child was slumbering peacefully in her cot.
• In the quiet of the night, everyone was already slumbering.

Emphasizes relaxation and the act of taking a break without necessarily falling asleep. Often used when someone is lying down or taking it easy to recover energy.

• He’s resting in the living room after the long hike.
• You should spend some time resting after the surgery.

Used to refer to the state of being asleep, typically during the night. It is the most general term for this state.

• She was sleeping soundly through the night.
• I couldn’t hear any noise because she was already sleeping.

Refers generally to a state of relaxation or taking a break from activity. It doesn’t necessarily imply sleeping, but rather a pause to recuperate.

• You should take some rest after your long journey.
• The doctor advised him to get plenty of rest.

A poetic or literary term for sleep. It is often used in more formal or dramatic contexts and can imply deep, undisturbed sleep.

• She fell into a deep slumber as the night wore on.
• The baby was in gentle slumber, dreams dancing in her mind.

Refers to a short period of sleep, usually taken during the day. It is often less formal and can imply a brief refreshing rest.

• He took a nap after lunch.
• She felt much better after a quick nap.