sleep
/sliːp/ IELTSAcademic
verb
To rest in bed and not be awake. During sleep, the body and mind are inactive for a time.
- I usually sleep eight hours a night.
- The baby is sleeping now.
- Try to sleep early tonight.
noun
The natural state of resting in bed and not being awake. It is important for health and energy.
- I need more sleep.
- She had a deep sleep last night.
- Good sleep helps you focus.
Adinary Nuance
Sleep is the basic word for natural rest. Use rest when you mean relaxing without necessarily falling asleep. Use nap for a short sleep, usually in the daytime. Use doze for light, half-awake sleep.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- ngủ
- Spanish
- dormir
- Chinese
- 睡觉
- Japanese
- 眠る
- Korean
- 자다
Etymology
Old English slēpan meant 'to sleep'. It is a very old Germanic word and has kept its main meaning for centuries.
Common phrases
get some sleepfall asleepdeep sleepa good night's sleep
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is sleep a noun or a verb?
- It is both. As a verb, it means to rest in bed. As a noun, it means the state of resting.
- What is the difference between sleep and nap?
- Sleep is the main rest you get at night. A nap is a short sleep, often during the day.
- Is sleep formal or informal?
- It is very common and neutral. You can use it in daily conversation and formal writing.