sleeping (A1)

verb (present participle), adjective, noun

Pronunciation: /ˈsliːpɪŋ/

Definition

The state of resting with eyes closed and mind unconscious, typically at night.

Examples

• The cat spent most of the afternoon sleeping on the warm windowsill.

• I found my little brother sleeping soundly in his bed after a long day of playing.

• She often dreams vividly while sleeping, sometimes even talking in her sleep.

How to Use sleeping

fall sleeping (collocation)

To begin to sleep (often used incorrectly, should be 'fall asleep') — "He was so tired he almost fell sleeping at his desk. (Note: 'fell asleep' is correct)"

sleeping on it (idiom)

To delay making a decision until the next day. — "I can't decide now; I need to sleep on it and tell you tomorrow."

sleeping around (phrasal verb)

To have many sexual partners (informal, often negative). — "Rumors started that he was sleeping around, which upset his girlfriend."

Synonyms of sleeping

Words with a similar meaning to sleeping:

• dozing
• slumbering
• resting
• napping

Antonyms of sleeping

Words with the opposite meaning to sleeping:

• waking
• awake

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