dormancy

noun

dor·​man·​cy ˈdȯr-mən(t)-sē How to pronounce dormancy (audio)
Synonyms of dormancynext
: the quality or state of being dormant

Synonyms of dormancy

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Examples of dormancy in a Sentence

some volcanoes have eruptive cycles marked by long stretches of dormancy a fighting force that could be roused instantly from dormancy to action
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Stop watering regularly once a lawn enters winter dormancy, based on grass type, soil temperature, and local weather. — Gemma Johnstone, The Spruce, 22 Oct. 2026 Once growth begins to slow, avoid late nitrogen applications, which can encourage new growth when the grass should be preparing for winter dormancy. — Tricia Goss, Southern Living, 5 Oct. 2026 Her investigative reporting on the Jeffrey Epstein case in 2018 broke the story open after a decade of dormancy. — Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 22 Sep. 2026 Overall, top candidates for bare-root planting include deciduous fruit trees, roses, berry bushes, and hardy perennials, as these plants handle winter dormancy exceptionally well. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 16 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dormancy

Word History

First Known Use

1723, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dormancy was in 1723

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dorm
dormancy
dormant
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Cite this Entry

“Dormancy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dormancy. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

dormancy

noun
dor·​man·​cy ˈdȯr-mən-sē How to pronounce dormancy (audio)
: the quality or state of being dormant
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