DROWSING Synonyms: 24 Similar and Opposite Words

drowsing

verb

present participle of drowse

as in napping

to sleep lightly or briefly picnickers drowsing in the shade of an oak tree

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of drowsing Bear in mind that those 55 million impressions were totted up long before Nielsen began counting scores of drowsing aunts and hyperactive toddlers among its national TV deliveries. — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 27 Nov. 2025 Jena looked over at the man’s camel, drowsing alongside the tent. — Literary Hub, 8 Aug. 2025

Recent Examples of Synonyms for drowsing

Verb

In school, this might happen when children are sitting very close to each other or napping alongside classmates.

— Emily J. C. Wong, The Conversation, 14 Oct. 2026
The large, breezy beachfront bungalows, meanwhile, have unobstructed views of the Pacific, whirlpool tubs, outside showers and hammocks that serve as prime spots for napping.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026

Definition of napping

Verb

Nothing etches itself in your heart quite like the memory of watching a pack of energetic African wild dogs frolicking, a lioness and her cubs dozing on the Kalahari with your own kids tucked in close.

— Kathryn Romeyn, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 June 2026
Victor Nicholas ended up dozing with his head on her shoulder.

— Alice Yin, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2026

Definition of dozing

Verb

In particular, the image of the sickly, slumbering child recurs throughout Marcon’s work.

— Matthew McLean, Artforum, 22 Sep. 2026
The winter months pass, long nights, a bomb cyclone that buries my basement windows in snow and leaves me to lurk in the dark like a slumbering bear, and then spring arrives abrupt and clanging and golden.

— Brian Laidlaw, Longreads, 1 Sep. 2026