dormancy

noun

dor·​man·​cy ˈdȯr-mən(t)-sē How to pronounce dormancy (audio)
Synonyms of dormancynext
: the quality or state of being dormant

Examples of dormancy in a Sentence

some volcanoes have eruptive cycles marked by long stretches of dormancy a fighting force that could be roused instantly from dormancy to action
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For No Doubt, the Sphere residency comes in the wake of a long period of relative dormancy. Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 8 May 2026 Once temperatures begin to be above about 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 Celsius), trees will begin to emerge from dormancy. Levi Keller, The Conversation, 5 May 2026 During the dormancy of winter, gray stems and branches are visible, standing tall and proud even when cold weather casts its icy shadow over the once vibrant landscape. Emily Leahy, Hartford Courant, 3 May 2026 When to Transplant Hydrangeas The best time to transplant hydrangeas is when the plant is dormant or just transitioning in or out of dormancy. Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 3 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for dormancy

Word History

First Known Use

1723, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dormancy was in 1723

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dormancy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dormancy. Accessed 13 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

dormancy

noun
dor·​man·​cy ˈdȯr-mən-sē How to pronounce dormancy (audio)
: the quality or state of being dormant
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