Definition of catnapnext
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
Putt-putting at low altitudes, taking catnaps to steal sleep, nearly slamming into a mountain in Africa and almost ditching in the Pacific Ocean, the Voyager and its crew limped home on fumes from empty fuel tanks two days before Christmas. — Trip Gabriel, New York Times, 8 May 2024 And your own cat is to thank for the inspiration behind Godzilla’s catnaps in the Colosseum? — Brian Davids, The Hollywood Reporter, 26 Mar. 2024
Verb
The sea breeze rushed in and carried me off to catnap under a Nido Notte Italian wool blanket in bed. — Adam Erace, Travel + Leisure, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for catnap
Recent Examples of Synonyms for catnap
Noun
  • It can also be used during short daytime naps, providing real-time acoustic guidance during sleep onset.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 3 Nov. 2026
  • Their favorite beds add to that comfort, too, offering a cozy place to curl up after a long walk or settle in for an afternoon nap.
    — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 1 Nov. 2026
Verb
  • Residents were also advised to install window screens and chimney caps, secure exterior doors and avoid leaving unscreened windows open, particularly while sleeping.
    — Daniel Hunt, Sacbee.com, 3 Nov. 2026
  • For the first time in a dozen years, a leading OB-GYN group has updated its guidance on managing hot flashes, night sweats, sleep changes and other disruptive symptoms that often come with menopause.
    — Laura Ungar, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Catnap.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/catnap. Accessed 11 Nov. 2026.

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