catnap 1 of 2

as in nap
a short sleep a catnap left me refreshed enough to face the rest of the day

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catnap

2 of 2

verb

1
as in to sleep
to be in a state of sleep the children are catnapping, so please be quiet

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in to nap
to sleep lightly or briefly catnapped for 10 minutes and then went back to work

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of catnap
Noun
This is perfect for taking catnaps, reading a book, or spending time with a loved one. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 15 Aug. 2023 More damningly, unofficially led the league last season in catnaps while his man roasted him on a backdoor cut. Globe Staff, BostonGlobe.com, 21 July 2023 During breaks, the crew will retreat into the vessel’s two cramped compartments to converse with their support team via satellite phone, monitor weather conditions, chart their navigation—and, most importantly, tend to their battered bodies while also trying to take 40-minute catnaps. Johnny Dodd, Peoplemag, 9 June 2023 Distraught Ministry of Health staff members worked relentlessly, took catnaps in their offices, and attended funerals. Laurie Garrett, Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2015 See All Example Sentences for catnap
Recent Examples of Synonyms for catnap
Noun
  • Peter goes back to work right away, and Marissa tries to keep her career alive during Milo's short naps, between reading articles on how to help with infant sleep and trying to get a few moments of shut eye herself.
    Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025
  • All caregivers should follow these rules for all naps and at nighttime.
    Melissa Willets, Parents, 4 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • White noise machines and humidifiers are frequently available, along with extra blankets, air purifiers, and blackout curtains or sleep masks.
    Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 10 Nov. 2025
  • McKenna posited that breastfeeding helped babies sleep more while increasing their milk supply and offering greater protection against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
    Jack Beresford, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Catnap.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/catnap. Accessed 25 Nov. 2025.

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