Definition

To be in a light sleep or to feel sleepy without fully falling asleep.

Example

After a long day, I like to drowse on the couch for a while.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I saw you sitting in the sun earlier; you looked like you were about to drowse.

Yeah, it was so warm and relaxing!

Sometimes I wish I could just drowse like that without a care in the world.

Me too! A little sunshine nap sounds perfect right now.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

The state of being in a light sleep or feeling very sleepy.

Example

After a long day, I felt a drowse come over me as I sat on the couch.

Conversation

I felt so sleepy during the meeting today.

I know what you mean; sometimes I just can't shake off that drowse.

Yeah, it's hard to stay focused when you're fighting off a drowse.

Definition

To make someone feel sleepy or to cause them to fall into a light sleep.

Example

The warm sun drowsed me as I lay on the beach.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I felt so tired after lunch; I could barely keep my eyes open.

Yeah, I know what you mean. That meal really drowsed me.

I guess we should avoid heavy lunches then, huh?

Root Explanation

Drowse originates from Middle English 'drous' (meaning to be drowsy or sleepy), which is derived from Old English 'drūsan' (meaning to fall asleep or become drowsy). The word describes a state of being in a light sleep or feeling sleepy.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone who is 'falling asleep' ('drūsan') and feeling 'drowsy' — that's what drowse means.

Visually Confused Words