Waking

/ˈweɪkɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

verb
the action of ceasing to sleep or causing someone to cease to sleep
I heard the alarm clock ringing, signaling that it was time for waking.
becoming aware of and responsive to one's surroundings after sleep
After a long night of rest, waking up felt refreshing.
adjective
relating to the process of waking up; not asleep
I enjoy the quiet moments of the waking hours before the world gets busy.
characterized by alertness or consciousness; aware
Her waking mind was full of ideas and aspirations.

Etymology

Middle English 'wakien', from Old English 'wacian'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

waking hours
The hours during which a person is not asleep.
waking dream
A state of consciousness resembling dreaming while being awake.
waking nightmare
A distressing experience during the waking state that resembles a nightmare.

Related Words

awake
In a state of consciousness; not asleep.
sleeping
In a state of rest; not awake.
drowse
To be half asleep; to nap lightly.

Slang Meanings

Woke
She's so woke to the issues of social justice.
Rise and shine
It's morning, time to rise and shine!