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Wakeful - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Wakeful means unable or unwilling to sleep, or characterized by alertness. It describes a state of being fully awake, watchful, or restless during usual sleeping hours.

wakeful

/ˈweɪkfəl/ /ˈweɪkf(ə)l/

Definition:

Unable to sleep or not sleeping; alert and vigilant.

Synonyms:

sleepless, alert, vigilant, watchful

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

sleepy, drowsy, asleep

Common Collocations:

wakeful night, wakeful state, wakeful mind

Derivatives:

wakefulness, wakefully

Usage Tips:

Use "wakeful" to describe someone who is unable to sleep or unusually alert, often due to stress or excitement.

Common Phrases:

wide awake and wakeful, in a wakeful state, keep a wakeful eye

Etymology:

From Old English "wacian" (to be awake) + "-ful," meaning full of being awake.

Examples:

  • 1. The baby was wakeful all night, keeping her parents exhausted.
  • 2. His wakeful mind raced with thoughts of the upcoming exam.
  • 3. She remained wakeful despite the soothing sounds of rain outside.
  • 4. The guard stayed wakeful during his shift to ensure safety.

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