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 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 Carolyn Kuan doesn’t do somnolence. Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 5 Nov. 2022 See All Example Sentences for somnolence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for somnolence
Noun
  • Some over‑the‑counter products that can pose risks include certain antihistamines, commonly found in allergy and cold remedies, nighttime sleep aids, motion sickness medications, and cough syrups, which can induce sleepiness or slow down cognitive function.
    Amanda Greenwood, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Apr. 2026
  • Other possibilities include another severe sleep disorder called idiosyncratic hypersomnia, as well as other conditions where people experience sleepiness or executive function problems during the day and poor sleep at night, Lilly CEO Dave Ricks said in an interview with CNBC.
    Angelica Peebles, CNBC, 31 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The drugs may also be used to treat other neurological conditions that are accompanied by drowsiness, such as Alzheimer’s disease and depression, and possibly even more broadly.
    Angelica Peebles, CNBC, 31 Mar. 2026
  • Avoid driving on medications that cause drowsiness.
    Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 30 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Eating either too many or not enough calories can contribute to fatigue, injuries, illness, poor performance and prolonged recovery from sports injuries.
    Dr. Sarah Kinsella, Boston Herald, 5 Apr. 2026
  • He was removed with what was called right arm fatigue.
    Justice delos Santos, Mercury News, 4 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • None of those are band practices, especially when trying to resuscitate one of college football’s sleeping giants.
    Noah White, Miami Herald, 5 Apr. 2026
  • Surrounded by a vast dark expanse, huddled in sleeping bags with three of your friends in a space the size of a five-person tent.
    Jennifer Borresen, USA Today, 5 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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