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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 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 Carolyn Kuan doesn’t do somnolence. Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 5 Nov. 2022 For me, that response is instantaneous somnolence. New York Times, 20 July 2022 See All Example Sentences for somnolence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for somnolence
Noun
  • At higher doses, kratom reduces anxiety and causes sleepiness, the way strong pain drugs like opioids (heroin or fentanyl) do.
    Gary Kirkilas II, Boston Herald, 1 Feb. 2026
  • In the short term, caffeine in coffee works by blocking adenosine, a neurotransmitter (brain chemical) involved in promoting sleepiness.
    Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 21 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The virus can lead to severe symptoms, including disorientation, drowsiness, seizures or encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain.
    Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 29 Jan. 2026
  • Signs of hypothermia include shivering, pale and cold skin, confusion and fatigue, difficulty walking or talking, memory loss and drowsiness, according to the Maryland Department of Health.
    Natalie Jones, Baltimore Sun, 23 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The most common symptoms of colorectal cancer include persistent changes in bowel habits, unfinished bowel habits, rectal bleeding or blood in stool, abdominal pain or discomfort, unexplained weight loss and fatigue.
    Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 31 Jan. 2026
  • Positive research on hydrogen water is in animals, while human studies showing a beneficial impact on oxidative stress, athletic recovery and reduced fatigue have been extremely small — 10 to 50 people.
    Sandee LaMotte, CNN Money, 31 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The compact structure included a 475-square-foot walkout basement dug into the hillside, which would serve as Brand’s office, and a 450-square-foot living space above with a sleeping loft.
    The New York Times, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Jan. 2026
  • Desert landscapes and fun cowboy-esque decor dotted the walls and surfaces; a queen-size Murphy bed masquerading as a barn door provided ample sleeping options.
    Asonta Benetti, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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