Somnolent

/ˈsɒmnələnt/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
drowsy or inclined to sleep; sleepy.
The somnolent atmosphere of the afternoon made it hard for anyone to stay awake.
relating to or marked by sleepiness.
She felt somnolent after the long, tiring lecture.
having a sleepy or lethargic quality.
The somnolent hum of the fan lulled him into a light sleep.
causing or inducing sleepiness.
The medication had a somnolent effect, making him feel unusually tired.

Etymology

From Latin 'somnolentus', from 'somnus' meaning sleep.

Common Phrases and Expressions

somnolent state
A condition of sleepiness or drowsiness.
somnolent effects
The effects that induce sleepiness, often used in relation to medication.

Related Words

somnolence
The state of being drowsy or sleepy.
insomnia
Inability to sleep.

Slang Meanings

Zoned out
After that long meeting, I was totally zoned out.
Nodding off
He was nodding off during the lecture.