Drowsiness

Noun

Definition: The state of feeling or being sleepy; a strong desire or inclination to sleep.

Synonyms: Sleepiness, Lethargy, Somnolence

Antonyms: Wakefulness, Alertness

Examples:

After staying up all night, he could not fight off the drowsiness during the meeting.
The medication may cause drowsiness, so do not operate heavy machinery while taking it.

Mnemonics:

Imagine feeling drowsiness as drifting on a cloud towards sleep.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "drowsiness" can be traced back to the Middle English word "drowsi" which means "sleepy". It originated from the Old English word "drysian" which means "to be languid, sleepy, or slothful".

Historical Usage:

The term has been used in English since the 14th century, evolving over time to its current form and meaning.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Fight off drowsiness"

Explanation:

To make an effort to stay awake or resist the urge to sleep.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing drowsiness with laziness.

Explanation:

Drowsiness is a physical sensation of sleepiness, while laziness refers to a lack of motivation or willingness to exert effort.