nod off

verb

nodded off; nodding off; nods off
Synonyms of nod offnext

intransitive verb

: to fall asleep

Examples of nod off in a Sentence

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.
Watching the crowd nod off will destroy your confidence. — Todd Harmonson, Oc Register, 4 Aug. 2025 At one point, cameras appeared to catch the Jets’ head coach, Aaron Glenn, nodding off. — Dan Greene, New Yorker, 18 May 2026 Instead of lab testing, our editors round up the best by nodding off and reviewing the industry-leading beds in their homes. — Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 6 Feb. 2026 The jury make-up changed on Wednesday after one juror was dismissed for frequently nodding off during testimony. — Luke Cyphers, Sportico.com, 14 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for nod off

Word History

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nod off was in 1914

Rhymes for nod off

See All Rhymes for nod off

Browse Nearby Words

no disputing
nod off
Nodosaria
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nod off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nod%20off. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on nod off

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for nod off

Nglish: Translation of nod off for Spanish Speakers

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