asleep
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /əˈsliːp/
KK: /əˈslip/
adjective
Definition
In a state of sleep; not awake.
Example
The baby is asleep in her crib.
Conversation
I was so tired last night that I fell asleep on the couch.
Really? How long were you out for?
I think I was asleep for about two hours before I woke up.
Wow, that sounds refreshing! I wish I could nap like that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dormant
inactive
slumbering
Antonyms
awake
alert
active
adverb
Definition
In a state where someone is not awake and is resting, usually with their eyes closed.
Example
The baby was sound asleep in her crib.
Conversation
Did you hear that loud noise last night?
Yeah, I was already asleep when it happened.
I thought it might wake you up!
Root Explanation
Asleep is formed from "a-" (meaning in a state of) and "sleep" (from Old English "slæpan", meaning to sleep). The word "asleep" describes being in a state of sleep.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'in a state of' ('a-') 'sleep' — that's what it means to be asleep.
Visually Confused Words
sleep
unasleep
sleepy
asteep
slee
seep
leep
alee