Definition of copulatenext
as in to sleep
to engage in sexual intercourse the time of year when deer in the wild are likely to copulate

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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 copulate These guppies also attempted to sneakily copulate with the females more often. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 10 July 2025 Male bees are fooled by these lookalikes and will attempt to copulate with them and, in doing so, will spread the pollen of the orchid. The San Diego Union Tribune, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 June 2025 But there was general agreement that most Central Floridians are seeing fewer of the copulating creepy-crawlies than in the past. Scott Maxwell, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 May 2025 The Santal, in South Asia, believed that witches (always female) copulated with spirit familiars and devoured the organs of children. Manvir Singh, New Yorker, 17 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for copulate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for copulate
sleep
Verb
  • Like Cernan on Apollo 17, Aldrin also described seeing flashing lights while trying to sleep.
    Stephen Smith, CBS News, 8 May 2026
  • In addition to the main building, where most guests sleep, the original palace also houses several suites filled with antique furniture and plenty of gild trim, which are available to book for a hefty price tag.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Copulate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/copulate. Accessed 10 May. 2026.

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