sleepiness
UK: ˈsliːpi.nəs | US: ˈsliːpi.nəs
n. the state of being drowsy or inclined to sleep
n. a feeling of tiredness or lethargy
The word "sleepiness" derives from the Old English "slǣp" (sleep), combined with the suffix "-ness," which forms abstract nouns denoting a state or condition. The connecting vowel "-i-" eases pronunciation between the root and suffix. Over time, "sleep" retained its core meaning of restful unconsciousness, while "-ness" systematically transformed verbs or adjectives into nouns describing qualities (e.g., "happiness," "darkness"). The construction reflects a straightforward Germanic pattern of root + suffix to express abstract states.
Her sleepiness made it hard to focus during the meeting.
The warmth of the sun added to his overwhelming sleepiness.
Caffeine can temporarily reduce feelings of sleepiness.
The medication’s side effects include dizziness and sleepiness.
He fought against sleepiness to finish his assignment before dawn.