Main Entry: ¹sleep

Pronunciation: \ˈslēp\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English slepe, from Old English slǣp; akin to Old High German slāf sleep and perhaps to Latin labi to slip, slide

Date: before 12th century

1 : the natural periodic suspension of consciousness during which the powers of the body are restored — compare REM sleep, slow-wave sleep
2 : a state resembling sleep: as a : a state of torpid inactivity b : death <put a pet cat to sleep>; also : trance, coma c : the closing of leaves or petals especially at night d : a state marked by a diminution of feeling followed by tingling <my foot's gone to sleep> e : the state of an animal during hibernation
3 a : a period spent sleeping b : night c : a day's journey
4 : crusty matter present in the corner of an eye upon awakening

— sleep·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective