forty winks

noun

plural in form but singular or plural in construction
: a short sleep : nap

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Each aircraft is equipped with just 76 full-flat sleeper seats that come fitted with a plush mattress topper for forty winks. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 25 Jan. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'forty winks.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of forty winks was in 1828

Dictionary Entries Near forty winks

Cite this Entry

“Forty winks.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/forty%20winks. Accessed 1 Apr. 2023.

Kids Definition

forty winks

noun singular or plural
: a short sleep : nap
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