Definition of somnolencenext
as in sleepiness
the quality or state of desiring or needing sleep somnolence is likely to be the most typical and telling reaction to this novel

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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 somnolence Russia took advantage of decades of somnolence in Europe to try to exploit its neighbors’ reliance on Russian gas after the invasion of Ukraine. Henry Farrell, Foreign Affairs, 19 Oct. 2023 The company warns of the potential for diarrhea, nausea, headaches, dizziness, and somnolence (excessive or sudden sedation). Beth Ann Mayer, Parents, 13 Aug. 2023 If successful, Murray wants the Senate to awake from its somnolence the past few months and years, having a free-flowing debate with lots of amendments considered. Paul Kane, Anchorage Daily News, 27 July 2023 More little dramas are unfolding across South Korean boardrooms as activist investors become more assertive after a long period of somnolence. Jacky Wong, WSJ, 28 Mar. 2023 See All Example Sentences for somnolence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for somnolence
Noun
  • In young children, THC intoxication can cause profound sleepiness, confusion, impaired coordination, vomiting and changes in heart rate.
    Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 10 Sep. 2026
  • To sleep, no more Two scientists who identified the role that a key neuropeptide plays in the uncontrollable sleepiness of narcolepsy were one of three recipients of the prestigious Lasker Awards, announced Thursday.
    O. Rose Broderick, STAT, 10 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Overdosing on the drug can cause extreme drowsiness, confusion, impaired coordination, decreased reflexes, respiratory depression, coma and possible death.
    Natasha Holt, FOXNews.com, 5 Sep. 2026
  • Mild effects, such as drowsiness, headache, insomnia, nausea, and vomiting, are common.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 28 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • But unlike actual fatigues, this is cut to drape just right in all the right places and is clean of any distressing and patches.
    Alison Syrett Cleary, InStyle, 18 Sep. 2026
  • Beyond common cold symptoms like a cough, sore throat and runny nose, people sick with COVID-19 often have body aches, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, headache, fatigue, fever and loss of taste and/or smell.
    Ann Sheehan, The Conversation, 18 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Remaining in this same great room, the main sleeping area is adjacent.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 16 Sep. 2026
  • So, pack lots of extra layers and your warmest sleeping system, especially since snow and ice are common sights during this time of year.
    Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 6 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Somnolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/somnolence. Accessed 23 Sep. 2026.

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