Sleeping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜ด
Add to dictionary

sleeping

[หˆsliหpษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

quality of being asleep

The state of being asleep, characterized by reduced consciousness and bodily activity.

Synonyms

asleep, resting, slumbering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sleeping

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 sheโ€™s sleeping.
asleep

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.
slumbering

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.
resting

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.

  • Heโ€™s resting in the living room after the long hike.
  • You should spend some time resting after the surgery.

Examples of usage

  • I was in a deep sleeping state when the alarm went off in the morning.
  • The baby's sleeping face looked peaceful and calm.
Context #2 | Noun

period of rest for the body and mind

A natural periodic state of rest for the body and mind, in which the eyes usually close and consciousness is completely or partially lost, so that there is a decrease in bodily movement and responsiveness to external stimuli.

Synonyms

nap, rest, slumber.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sleeping

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 couldnโ€™t hear any noise because she was already sleeping.
rest

Refers generally to a state of relaxation or taking a break from activity. It doesnโ€™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.
slumber

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.
nap

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.

Examples of usage

  • After a long day at work, all I wanted to do was get a good night's sleep.
  • The doctor recommended getting at least 8 hours of sleep each night.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Humans spend about one-third of their lives sleeping, which is crucial for health and well-being.
  • During sleep, the brain processes information, which helps with learning and memory.
  • Different stages of sleep, like REM and deep sleep, have unique roles in physical recovery and brain function.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures have unique sleep rituals that can involve bedtime stories, lullabies, or special bedding.
  • In some traditions, dreaming during sleep is seen as a link to the spiritual world, leading to interpretations of dreams.
  • Napping is a common practice in numerous countries, especially in places with hot weather, allowing rest during the day.

Psychology

  • Sleep deprivation can lead to mood swings, irritability, and difficulty focusing, affecting daily life.
  • Dreams during sleep often reflect thoughts and feelings, acting as a window into our subconscious mind.
  • Restful sleep is associated with improved emotional stability and decision-making abilities.

Technology

  • Innovative sleep tracking devices now help monitor sleep patterns, offering insights for better rest.
  • Apps designed for sleep often feature relaxation sounds, guided meditations, and bedtime stories to help users relax.
  • Researchers are exploring virtual reality as a tool to create calming environments that promote better sleep.

History

  • Ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks and Romans, viewed sleep as a necessary state for both health and divine inspiration.
  • In the Middle Ages, there was a custom of 'first sleep' and 'second sleep', where people would wake in the night and then return to sleep.
  • The Industrial Revolution dramatically changed sleep patterns as artificial lighting extended work hours, affecting natural sleep cycles.

Origin of 'sleeping'

The word 'sleeping' originated from the Old English word 'slรฆpan', meaning 'to sleep', which is of Germanic origin. The concept of sleep has been essential to human life since ancient times, with various cultures developing rituals and practices around it. The importance of sleep for physical and mental health has been recognized by medical professionals, leading to the study of sleep disorders and the development of sleep medicine.


See also: asleep, sleep, sleepy.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,426, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.