comatose
word
Definition
Comatose describes someone who is in a deep, unconscious state—often because of illness or injury—where they cannot be awakened. It is also sometimes used informally to mean extremely sleepy or unresponsive.
Usage & Nuances
'Comatose' is formal/medical for an actual coma, but used informally to exaggerate tiredness or lack of response ('He was so tired he was almost comatose'). Do not confuse with 'coma' (the noun) or 'catatonic'. Rarely used outside medical or descriptive contexts.
Example Sentences
The patient was comatose after the accident.
basic
He lay comatose in the hospital bed.
basic
Sorry I didn’t answer—after that double shift, I was basically comatose all weekend.
natural
After the surgery, she remained comatose for days.
basic
He looked so comatose during class that the teacher asked if he was feeling alright.
natural
Honestly, after that huge meal, I felt comatose for the rest of the afternoon.
natural