hibernation

noun

hi·​ber·​na·​tion ˌhībə(r)ˈnāshən How to pronounce hibernation (audio)
plural -s
Synonyms of hibernationnext
1
: the act of hibernating
a new concept of the relation between food and hibernation of the black bearR. E. Trippensee
2
: the state of one that hibernates
came out of his comfortable hibernation to make his first political pronouncement since his retirementTime
opposed to estivation

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hibernation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hibernation. Accessed 15 Dec. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on hibernation

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!