insomnia

noun

in·​som·​nia in-ˈsäm-nē-ə 

: prolonged and usually abnormal inability to get enough sleep especially due to trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

chronic insomnia

Insomnia is a patient-reported problem characterized by difficulty falling asleep or difficulty maintaining sleep; ie, frequent awakenings, difficulty returning to sleep after awakenings, or awakening too early with inability to return to sleep.

—Daniel J. Buysse

Synonyms

• sleeplessness
• wakefulness

Examples of insomnia in a Sentence

has suffered from insomnia virtually his entire life

Recent Examples on the Web

Moderate your caffeine consumption, which can worsen insomnia and result in daytime sleepiness. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 12 Feb. 2025

Medical researchers caution that CBD’s efficacy for conditions like insomnia remains inconclusive, though its safety profile for adults is generally accepted. —Tribune Content Agency, The Mercury News, 7 Feb. 2025

Some studies also indicate that magnesium deficiency is linked to insomnia and restless sleep, making adequate intake especially important for those struggling with sleep issues. —Jennifer Shanker, Flow Space, 6 Feb. 2025

Circadian rhythm disorders, Shift Work Disorder and Jet Lag Disorder are worsened by DST, leading to insomnia, fatigue, and increased risk of anxiety and depression. —Maria Sokolina, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from insomnis sleepless, from in- + somnus sleep — more at somnolent

First Known Use

1739, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

insomnia

noun

in·​som·​nia in-ˈsäm-nē-ə 

: prolonged inability to sleep

Medical Definition

insomnia

noun

in·​som·​nia in-ˈsäm-nē-ə 

: prolonged and usually abnormal inability to obtain adequate sleep especially due to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

called also agrypnia