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

This can pose a challenge for individuals with sleep disorders, like insomnia and sleep apnea, as well as those who have long commutes. —Mill Etienne, Forbes, 20 Dec. 2024

Its compounds treat insomnia and encourage better sleep overall.23 Be mindful of drinking too much liquid close to bedtime, which may cause waking to urinate. 9. —Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 16 Dec. 2024

Many users report that THC helps with their insomnia or other sleep disorders. —Lydia Kariuki, The Mercury News, 2 Dec. 2024

Mercury is linked with cognitive problems such as insomnia, tremors, and memory loss. —Lauren Leffer, Popular Science, 27 Nov. 2024

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