Word of the day: Soporific

Soporific

[sop-uh-rif-ik] 

adjective

1. causing or tending to cause sleep; drowsy or sleepy

Examples of soporific in a sentence:

• The soporific effects of the medication helped the patient relax and fall asleep.

• The professor's monotonous voice had a soporific effect on the students during the lecture.

"Soporific" originates from the Latin word "sopor," meaning "deep sleep," combined with the suffix "-fic," which denotes "making" or "causing." It describes something that induces sleepiness or drowsiness, often referring to substances, activities, or environments that have a calming or sedative effect. "Soporific" can be applied to various contexts, such as medications, music, or repetitive tasks, that lull individuals into a state of lethargy or drowsiness. Beyond its literal meaning, "soporific" can also metaphorically describe anything dull, boring, or lacking in excitement, as if it has a sleep-inducing effect on the mind. The concept of "soporific" prompts reflection on the interplay between stimulation and relaxation, highlighting the importance of balance in maintaining mental and physical well-being.

sleep-inducing 

sedative 

hypnotic

calming

tranquilizing