Snooze: meaning, definitions and examples

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snooze

[snuːz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

alarm clock

To delay or postpone an alarm or timer for a short period of time, usually by pressing a button on the alarm clock or phone.

Synonyms

defer, delay, postpone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snooze	Used mainly when referring to taking a short, light sleep, often for a few minutes. Often used in informal contexts, especially with things like alarm clocks. I set my alarm for 7 AM but kept hitting the snooze button. He decided to snooze for a bit on the couch before dinner.
delay	Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate that something is taking longer than expected or scheduled. Often implies an unintended or unwanted postponement. The flight was delayed due to bad weather. There was a delay in the delivery of the package.
postpone	Often used in both formal and semi-formal contexts. It means to reschedule an event or activity to a later time, usually indicating a planned rather than unexpected change. The meeting was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. They decided to postpone their wedding until next year.
defer	Typically used in formal situations such as administrative, academic, or professional settings. It means to put off an action or event to a later time, often for strategic reasons. The committee decided to defer the decision until next month. She deferred her admission to the university for a year.

Examples of usage

I always hit the snooze button at least three times before actually getting out of bed.
Can you please snooze the alarm for another 10 minutes?

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sleep

A short period of sleep, especially in the morning after the alarm has gone off.

Synonyms

doze, nap, siesta.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snooze	Typically used for a short, light sleep, often during the day. Commonly associated with a brief rest rather than a deep sleep. I managed to sneak in a quick snooze during my lunch break
nap	A short sleep taken during the daytime, generally planned and often beneficial for energy and productivity. After a long morning at work, she decided to take a 20-minute nap to recharge
doze	Refers to a light, often unintentional sleep. Frequently happens in places like buses, trains, or when watching TV. He started to doze off while watching the late-night movie
siesta	Commonly used in Spanish-speaking countries, referring to a longer rest or sleep in the afternoon, often after lunch. In Spain, it's customary to have a siesta in the early afternoon

Examples of usage

I always enjoy a quick snooze after my alarm goes off in the morning.
She decided to take a snooze before starting her work.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originally comes from the Old English 'snūsan', meaning to snore or sleep soundly.
In the 1960s, 'snooze' became popularized with the use of alarm clocks that featured a 'snooze button'.
This term reflects the comfort and desire to extend sleep, especially in the morning.

Cultural Significance

Many cultures have their own sayings about napping, with some encouraging short sleeps for better productivity.
In some places, taking a snooze after lunch is a normal part of the day, especially in warmer climates.
The concept of 'siesta', common in Spain, emphasizes the importance of short rest periods for overall well-being.

Psychology

Short naps can enhance memory consolidation, rejuvenate mind, and improve learning capabilities.
The practice of napping is linked to increased alertness and mood enhancement, making it a popular choice for those feeling groggy.
Research suggests that snoozing can help alleviate stress, offering a reset for mental health.

Health

Sleep experts recommend short naps of 20-30 minutes to improve cognitive function without causing sleep inertia.
Snoozing can help compensate for lost sleep but isn’t a substitute for a full night’s rest.
Studies indicate that regular napping can be associated with lower risk of heart conditions, highlighting its health benefits.

Technology

Modern alarm clocks and smartphone apps often include a snooze feature, allowing users to delay waking up.
Some smart devices now track sleep patterns and optimize wake times, making the idea of snoozing even more relevant.
The design of snooze functions in digital gadgets aims to enhance user experience by promoting gradual waking.

Translations

Translations of the word "snooze" in other languages:

🇵🇹 soneca

🇮🇳 झपकी

🇩🇪 Schlummer

🇮🇩 tidur sebentar

🇺🇦 дрімота

🇵🇱 drzemka

🇯🇵 うたた寝 (utatane)

🇫🇷 sommeil léger

🇪🇸 siesta

🇹🇷 kestirme

🇰🇷 선잠 (seonjam)

🇸🇦 غفوة (ghafwa)

🇨🇿 dřímota

🇸🇰 zdriemnutie

🇨🇳 小睡 (xiǎo shuì)

🇸🇮 dremež

🇮🇸 blundur

🇰🇿 қалғып кету

🇬🇪 თვლემა (tvlēma)

🇦🇿 yuxucuq

🇲🇽 siesta

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,194 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
33191 pronto
33192 chyme
33193 inhalant
33194 snooze
33195 swash
33196 psalter
33197 hydrolyzing
...