Have forty winks Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To take a short nap, usually during the day, to rest and refresh yourself.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal, somewhat old-fashioned British-English expression. It's used humorously or gently to mean taking a quick nap. More common phrases in American English are 'take a nap' or 'catch some Z's'. 'Forty winks' does not literally mean forty; it just means a brief sleep.
Example Sentences
I feel tired. I think I'll have forty winks.
basic
After lunch, she decided to have forty winks before going back to work.
basic
He likes to have forty winks during his break.
basic
If you have forty winks now, you'll feel much better later.
natural
The baby is quiet because she's having forty winks.
natural
I couldn't get enough sleep last night, so I might have forty winks after my meeting.
natural