sleep (sl p)n. 1. a. A natural periodic state of rest for the mind and body, in which the eyes usually close and consciousness is completely or partially lost, so that there is a decrease in bodily movement and responsiveness to external stimuli. During sleep the brain in humans and other mammals undergoes a characteristic cycle of brain-wave activity that includes intervals of dreaming. b. A period of this form of rest. c. A state of inactivity resembling or suggesting sleep; unconsciousness, dormancy, hibernation, or death. 2. Botany The folding together of leaflets or petals at night or in the absence of light. 3. A crust of dried tears or mucus normally forming around the inner rim of the eye during sleep. v. slept (sl  pt), sleep·ing, sleeps v.intr. 1. To be in the state of sleep or to fall asleep. 2. To be in a condition resembling sleep. v.tr. Phrasal Verbs: 1. To pass or get rid of by sleeping: slept away the day; went home to sleep off the headache. 2. To provide sleeping accommodations for: This tent sleeps three comfortably. sleep around Informal To be sexually active with more than one partner. sleep in 1. To sleep at one's place of employment: a butler and a chauffeur who sleep in. 2. a. To oversleep: I missed the morning train because I slept in. b. To sleep late on purpose: After this week's work, I will sleep in on Saturday. sleep on To think about (something) overnight before deciding. sleep out 1. To sleep at one's own home, not at one's place of employment. 2. To sleep away from one's home. sleep over To spend the night as a guest in another's home. sleep together To have sexual relations. sleep with Idiom: To have sexual relations with. sleep like a log/rock To sleep very deeply. [Middle English slepe, from Old English slæp; see sl b- in Indo-European roots.] |
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