somnolence

noun

ˈsäm-nə-lən(t)s How to pronounce somnolence (audio)
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
  1. sleepiness
  2. drowsiness
  3. fatigue
  4. sleeping
Noun
  • Your circadian rhythm is an internal 24-hour clock that helps regulate alertness and sleepiness.
    — Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 28 Oct. 2026
  • Advertisement Tell your doctor about the pauses, gasping, and any daytime sleepiness.
    — Angela Haupt, Time, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of sleepiness
Noun
  • Surveys have repeatedly shown that Americans don't like the current clock changes, with lawmakers and physicians blaming the regular time shifts for drowsiness, inconveniences and even risks to health.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 2 Nov. 2026
  • The Cleveland Clinic notes that as bedtime approaches, the body begins lowering its core temperature as part of the circadian rhythm that signals drowsiness.
    — Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 Oct. 2026
Definition of drowsiness
Noun
  • The Latvian is reportedly dealing with recurring symptoms tied to Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), which can cause dizziness and fatigue.
    — Ryan Morik OutKick, FOXNews.com, 6 Nov. 2026
  • In studies, withdrawal from kratom has appeared mild on a scale that measures clinical opioid withdrawal, with symptoms like anxiety, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, and restlessness.
    — Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 6 Nov. 2026
Definition of fatigue
Noun
  • Families would do well to check into either the Suisho suite—spacious and comfortable in accommodating rollaway beds or cots, with private dining available on the balcony—or Kinu, with its tatami mat floor sleeping area with family-friendly futons.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Nov. 2026
  • Evidence remains mixed, and dreams could also be an experiential by-product of useful sleeping-brain activity, rather than an adaptation with its own job description.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 2 Nov. 2026
Definition of sleeping

Browse Nearby Words

somniferous
somnolence
somnolent
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Cite this Entry

“Somnolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/somnolence. Accessed 7 Nov. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on somnolence

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about somnolence

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