Definition

Causing or inducing sleep; having a sleepy effect.

Example

The somniferous effects of the medication helped him fall asleep quickly.

Conversation

I watched this movie last night that was so somniferous I fell asleep halfway through.

Really? I hate when that happens!

Yeah, I should have picked something more exciting instead.

For sure! Sometimes a good thriller is all you need to stay awake.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Somniferous → It is formed from "somnus" (meaning sleep) and "ferre" (meaning to carry or bring). The word describes something that brings or carries sleep.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'carries' ('ferre') you into 'sleep' ('somnus') — that's why somniferous means something that induces sleep.

Visually Confused Words