Asleep

Definition

Asleep is an adjective and adverb that describes the state of being in a natural state of rest or sleep, often characterized by a loss of consciousness and reduced physical activity. It can also refer to being inactive or numb.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈsliːp/
• Respelling: uh-SLEEP

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈsliːp/
• Respelling: uh-SLEEP

Etymology

The word "asleep" originates from Old English "on slæpe," which combined "a" (on) and "sleep" to denote the state of being in sleep. Over time, it evolved to a single word indicating the state of being in rest or slumber.

Derivatives

• Sleep (noun/verb)
• Sleepiness (noun)
• Sleepy (adjective)
• Sleeper (noun)
• Asleepness (rare noun)

Synonyms

• Sleeping
• Dozing
• Slumbering

Antonyms

• Awake
• Alert
• Active

Usage

The word "asleep" is commonly used to describe someone who is in a state of sleep or unconscious rest. For example, "The baby is asleep in her crib," or "His foot went asleep after sitting for too long."

Related Terms

• Sleep: The natural state of rest during which the body recovers and recharges.
• Rest: A period of relaxation or inactivity.
• Drowsy: A feeling of sleepiness or tiredness.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• In a state of sleep or rest: Refers to someone or something that is currently sleeping or at rest.
  • Example: "She fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow."
• Inactive or numb (colloquial use): Used to describe a limb or part of the body that feels numb, often due to lack of circulation.
  • Example: "My foot went asleep while I was sitting."

Adverb

• In a state of sleep: Describes the manner in which someone is sleeping or at rest.
  • Example: "He lay asleep on the couch."