catnap

noun

cat·​nap ˈkat-ˌnap How to pronounce catnap (audio)
: a very short light nap
catnap intransitive verb

Examples of catnap in a Sentence

a catnap left me refreshed enough to face the rest of the day
Recent Examples on the Web This is perfect for taking catnaps, reading a book, or spending time with a loved one. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 15 Aug. 2023 More damningly, unofficially led the league last season in catnaps while his man roasted him on a backdoor cut. Globe Staff, BostonGlobe.com, 21 July 2023 During breaks, the crew will retreat into the vessel’s two cramped compartments to converse with their support team via satellite phone, monitor weather conditions, chart their navigation—and, most importantly, tend to their battered bodies while also trying to take 40-minute catnaps. Johnny Dodd, Peoplemag, 9 June 2023 And hey, any excuse for turning off your brain via a quick catnap is probably welcome. Lisa Bain, Good Housekeeping, 26 May 2023 Curling up for a catnap to reheat has never been comfier. Jasmine Hyman, Peoplemag, 1 Nov. 2022 But small daily actions – such as a short walk, break from social media or even a catnap – can add up to have an impact on mental health. Jacqueline Kim, The Conversation, 27 July 2022 In part, that's due to its pace, which only goes as fast as a cat can meander through a desolate cityscape, occasionally stopping to lap up some water or take a catnap. Rachel Metz, CNN, 22 July 2022 Apart from stops to eat and refuel, her driver, Stepanova’s husband, Serhii Stepanov, took a catnap of only three hours. New York Times, 15 July 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'catnap.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1823, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of catnap was in 1823

Dictionary Entries Near catnap

Cite this Entry

“Catnap.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catnap. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

catnap

noun
cat·​nap -ˌnap How to pronounce catnap (audio)
: a short light nap
catnap verb

More from Merriam-Webster on catnap

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