hibernation
noun
Pronunciation: /ˌhaɪbərˈneɪʃən/
Definition
A state of deep sleep and slowed metabolism that allows certain animals to survive harsh winter conditions.
Examples
Many small mammals enter hibernation to conserve energy when food sources become scarce.
The ground squirrel's heart rate drops significantly during its long winter hibernation.
Researchers monitored the temperature of the bats throughout their hibernation period.
How to Use hibernation
- enter hibernation (collocation)
- to begin the process of hibernating — "The frogs enter hibernation as soon as the first frost hits."
- in hibernation (prepositional phrase)
- currently in the state of hibernating — "The garden is in hibernation until the flowers bloom again."
Synonyms of hibernation
Words with a similar meaning to hibernation:
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