Meaning & Definition of word "Sleeping"

Sleeping

/ˈsliːpɪŋ/

verb:

  • 1. the act of resting in a state of reduced consciousness, typically characterized by a lowered metabolic rate and less responsiveness to external stimuli.
    • Example: After a long day at work, I enjoy sleeping for eight hours straight.
  • 2. being in a state where the body is at rest and the mind is inactive.
    • Example: The baby was sleeping peacefully in her crib.
  • 3. not active or functioning; dormant.
    • Example: The volcano had been sleeping for decades before it erupted.

adjective:

  • 1. in a state of rest or slumber; not awake.
    • Example: The sleeping dog lay curled up on the couch.
  • 2. temporarily inactive; not currently operating.
    • Example: The project is sleeping until we get more funding.

Etymology

Middle English slepen, from Old English slǣpan; related to Dutch slapen and German schlafen.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sleeping beauty:

A person who is exceptionally beautiful, but also refers to someone who is in a deep sleep.

sleeping like a baby:

To sleep very well and peacefully.

get some shut-eye:

To get some sleep.

Related Words

sleep:

The natural periodic suspension of consciousness.

dreaming:

The experience of images, sounds, and other sensations during sleep.

snooze:

To take a short sleep.

Slang Meanings of sleeping

Meaning: Hit the sack

Example Sentence: After the party, I'm ready to hit the sack.

Meaning: Catching some Z's

Example Sentence: I’m so tired; I need to catch some Z's before work.