Wake

Definition

Wake can function as a verb meaning to cease sleeping or to rouse from sleep, or as a noun referring to the track or aftermath left by something, such as a ship or an event. It can also refer to a vigil held for someone who has passed away.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /weɪk/
• Respelling: wayk

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /weɪk/
• Respelling: wayk

Etymology

The word "wake" originates from Old English "wacan," meaning "to arise or wake up," and "wacu," meaning "watch" or "vigil." Its modern meanings evolved from the Proto-Germanic "*wakan" (to be awake) and Proto-Indo-European "*weg-" (to be strong or lively).

Derivatives

• Awake (verb/adjective)
• Waken (verb)
• Wakeful (adjective)
• Wakefulness (noun)
• Reawake (verb)

Synonyms

• Stir
• Arise
• Trail

Antonyms

• Sleep
• Slumber
• Rest

Usage

As a verb, "wake" refers to becoming conscious or rousing from sleep. For example, "She woke at dawn."

As a noun, "wake" can refer to the trail left by a boat. For example, "The ship’s wake rippled across the ocean."

It can also describe a vigil or gathering held in honor of someone who has passed away. For example, "Family and friends attended the wake to pay their respects."

Related Terms

• Slumber: A state of sleep.
• Trail: The marks or path left by something.
• Vigil: A period of keeping watch, often associated with a wake.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To cease sleeping or rouse from sleep: Refers to becoming conscious after resting.
  • Example: "He woke up early to prepare for work."
• To make someone stop sleeping: Describes the act of rousing another person.
  • Example: "The noise woke the baby."

Noun

• The track left behind by a ship or other object: Refers to the visible trail or disturbance in water.
  • Example: "The yacht's wake shimmered in the sunlight."
• The aftermath or consequences of an event: Describes the effects or results following an occurrence.
  • Example: "In the wake of the storm, many homes were damaged."
• A vigil held for the deceased: Refers to a gathering to honor and remember someone who has passed away.
  • Example: "The family organized a wake for their late grandmother."