Slumber: meaning, definitions and examples

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slumber

[ ˈslʌmbər ]

Noun / Verb

^{Context #1 | Noun}

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

nap, rest, sleep.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
slumber	Typically used in a poetic or literary context to describe a calm and peaceful sleep. After a long day, he fell into a deep slumber. The child was in a state of sweet slumber.
sleep	A general term for the state of resting with your eyes closed and body inactive, usually at night. He needs to sleep well to feel better. They didn't get enough sleep last night.
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. You should rest after your long trip. I'm going to rest for a bit before we go out tonight.
nap	Refers to a short period of sleep, usually taken during the day. She took a quick nap after lunch. He's in the living room, having an afternoon nap.

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.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

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

doze, nap, rest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
slumber	Often used in more poetic or literary settings, or to describe a deep, peaceful sleep. She fell into a deep slumber after reading her favorite book The forest was silent, as though it were in eternal slumber
doze	Refers to light sleep, often during the day or unintentionally, such as when someone is tired but not planning to sleep for long. He dozed off during the lecture She was dozing in the sun after lunch
nap	A short period of sleep, typically taken during the day to refresh oneself. Much more intentional than dozing. I usually take a nap after lunch She looked refreshed after her afternoon nap
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. You should take some time to rest after that long run He lay on the couch to rest for a while

Examples of usage

The baby slumbered peacefully in her crib.
He slumbered through the movie, barely aware of the plot.

Translations

Translations of the word "slumber" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sono

🇮🇳 नींद

🇩🇪 Schlummer

🇮🇩 tidur lelap

🇺🇦 дрімота

🇵🇱 drzemka

🇯🇵 うたた寝

🇫🇷 sommeil

🇪🇸 sueño

🇹🇷 uyuklama

🇰🇷 선잠

🇸🇦 نعاس

🇨🇿 dřímota

🇸🇰 driemota

🇨🇳 小睡

🇸🇮 dremljaj

🇮🇸 blundur

🇰🇿 мүлгу

🇬🇪 თვლემა

🇦🇿 mürgü

🇲🇽 sueño

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,370, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
14367 murderous
14368 chop
14369 peering
14370 slumber
14371 mournful
14372 quitted
14373 exacted
...