n.
- a regularly recurring condition of body and mind in which the nervous system is inactive, the eyes closed, the postural muscles relaxed, and consciousness practically suspended.
- a gummy secretion found in the corners of the eyes after sleep.
v.
(past and past part. slept
/slɛpt/
)
- be in a state of sleep.
▸
(sleep something off)
recover from something by going to sleep.
▸
(sleep in)
remain asleep or in bed later than usual in the morning.
- provide (a specified number of people) with beds or bedrooms.
-
(sleep together/with)
have sex or be involved in a sexual relationship.
▸
(sleep around)
have many casual sexual partners.
Phrase
- put someone to sleep
make someone unconscious with drugs or anaesthetic. - put something to sleep
kill an animal painlessly. - sleep like a log
(or top)
sleep very soundly.
Derivative
- sleepless adj.
- sleeplessly adv.
- sleeplessness n.
Etymology
OE slēp, slæp (n.), slēpan, slæpan (v.), of Gmc origin.
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