Slumber Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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slumber
[ˈslʌmbər ]
Definitions
peaceful sleep
Slumber refers to a peaceful and untroubled sleep, often associated with tranquility and relaxation. It is a state of rest where the mind and body are at ease, allowing for rejuvenation and renewal.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| slumber |
Typically used in a poetic or literary context to describe a calm and peaceful sleep.
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| sleep |
A general term for the state of resting with your eyes closed and body inactive, usually at night.
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| rest |
Can refer to both sleep and a period of relaxation without sleeping. It is often used when talking about taking a break to recover energy.
|
| nap |
Refers to a short period of sleep, usually taken during the day.
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Examples of usage
- I drifted off into a deep slumber after a long day at work.
- The sound of rain outside helped me fall into a restful slumber.
- She woke up feeling refreshed after a night of undisturbed slumber.
to sleep lightly or intermittently
To slumber is to sleep lightly or intermittently, often in a relaxed or half-conscious state. It can refer to a state of drowsiness where one is not fully awake but not in deep sleep either.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| slumber |
Often used in more poetic or literary settings, or to describe a deep, peaceful sleep.
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| doze |
Refers to light sleep, often during the day or unintentionally, such as when someone is tired but not planning to sleep for long.
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| nap |
A short period of sleep, typically taken during the day to refresh oneself. Much more intentional than dozing.
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| rest |
A broader term that can mean sleep, but also just a period of relaxation or inactivity to regain strength. Can be used in various settings.
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Examples of usage
- The baby slumbered peacefully in her crib.
- He slumbered through the movie, barely aware of the plot.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Sleep stages include slumber, where deep sleep occurs, vital for memory retention and brain health.
- People often experience vivid dreams during slumber, particularly in the REM stage, which can impact emotions and creativity.
- Studies show adequate slumber can improve mood and cognitive function, showing how vital rest is for daily life.
Literature
- Poets have long used slumber as a metaphor for peace or escape, reflecting the calmness associated with deep sleep.
- Shakespeare often referred to sleep, including slumber, as a source of reprieve from life's troubles.
- In fairy tales, slumber is a common theme, symbolizing a temporary escape from reality until a 'waking' call.
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures have rituals centering around slumber, from bedtime stories in Western traditions to lullabies in various societies.
- The concept of 'sweet slumber' has been celebrated in art and music, often depicted as a beautiful and serene state.
- In some languages, words for slumber also connote dreams, emphasizing the connection between the two experiences.
Origin of 'slumber'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'slumber' comes from the Old English 'slumor,' which means sleep.
- Related words like 'slumberous' and 'slumbering' emphasize the peaceful and restful aspects of sleep.
- In Middle English, similar terms were used to describe not just sleep but also dreams and the state of a hibernating animal.
The word 'slumber' originated from Middle English 'slomren', which in turn came from Old English 'slummerian' meaning 'to doze'. The concept of slumber has been associated with rest and relaxation throughout history, with various cultures valuing the importance of quality sleep for overall well-being.