sandman
word
/ˈsændˌmæn/
/sˈændmən/
Definition
The sandman is a mythical figure in Western folklore who is said to help people, especially children, fall asleep by sprinkling magical sand into their eyes.
Usage & Nuances
Often used when talking to children about bedtime. 'The sandman' can appear in stories, lullabies, or as a metaphor for sleepiness. Not used for real people or situations—it's always mythical or playful.
Spanish: hombre de arena (figura mítica)Portuguese (BR): homem da areia (figura mítica)Portuguese (PT): homem da areia (figura mítica)Chinese (Simplified): 睡魔Chinese (Traditional): 睡魔Hindi: सैंडमैन (काल्पनिक पात्र)Arabic: رجل الرمل (شخصية خرافية)Bengali: বালুমানুষ (কল্পিত চরিত্র)Russian: песочный человек (мифическое существо)Japanese: 眠りの精Vietnamese: ông cát (nhân vật cổ tích)Korean: 잠의 요정Turkish: kum adam (efsanevi karakter)Urdu: ریت والا آدمی (افسانوی کردار)Indonesian: orang pasir (tokoh dongeng)
Example Sentences
The sandman is coming to help you sleep.
basic
Have you heard stories about the sandman?
basic
Children believe the sandman brings sweet dreams.
basic
If you're sleepy, maybe the sandman has already visited you.
natural
Parents sometimes tell stories about the sandman at bedtime.
natural
I couldn't sleep last night—guess the sandman skipped me!
natural