sleeping

word · lemma: sleep

/ˈsɫipɪŋ/
SLEE-ping
/slˈiːpɪŋ/
SLEE-ping

Definition

Sleeping is the act of resting with your eyes closed and your body inactive. It can also describe someone or something that is in a sleep state.

Usage & Nuances

Usually appears in continuous forms like 'is sleeping' or as an adjective before a noun, as in 'sleeping baby' or 'sleeping bag'. Don't confuse it with 'asleep': we say 'The baby is asleep', but not usually 'The asleep baby'.

Example Sentences

The baby is sleeping now.

basic

I need a quiet room for sleeping.

basic

The dog was sleeping on the sofa.

basic

Try not to make noise — your sister is sleeping.

natural

I've been sleeping badly all week.

natural

No wonder he's tired; he was sleeping in his car last night.

natural