Synonyms for

Sleepy

Verb / ˈsli:pi: / Another word for sleepy — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

feeling tired and wanting to sleep

Synonyms & similar words

sleepyeyed sleepyheaded drowsy tired sluggish weary fatigued lethargic dozy dopey torpid comatose heavy-eyed snoozy languid exhausted inactive somnolent listless dull lifeless droopy

Synonyms by register

Formal

somnolent drowsy lethargic

Informal

tired worn out beat pooped

Literary

nodding heavy-lidded

Antonyms

awake alert energetic lively vigilant active rested

Common collocations

  • very sleepy
  • feeling sleepy
  • sleepy hollow
  • sleepy eyes
  • sleepy head
  • sleepy town
  • sleepy child

Word family

noun sleepiness
adjective sleepy
adverb sleepily

Usage note

Sleepy is a common adjective. While 'somnolent' is a formal synonym, it is rarely used in everyday conversation. 'Sleepy head' is an informal, often affectionate, term for someone who is sleepy.

Example sentences

  1. I feel so sleepy in the morning and it's hard to wake up.
  2. After playing all day, the children were feeling very sleepy.
  3. The warm sun and soft breeze made her feel sleepy.
  4. Sometimes a good book makes me feel sleepy.
  5. She was so sleepy that she could hardly keep her eyes open.

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