forty winks: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, Figurative
Quick answer
What does “forty winks” mean?
A short sleep, especially during the day.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A short sleep, especially during the day; a brief nap.
Often used to refer to a refreshing, light sleep, not intended to replace a full night's rest. The term suggests something quick and restorative, often taken opportunistically.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The phrase is understood in both varieties, but is arguably more entrenched and frequently used in British English. In American English, 'a nap' or 'a catnap' is more common.
Connotations
In British English, it can carry connotations of a traditional, harmless indulgence. In American English, it may sound more consciously quaint or literary.
Frequency
Higher frequency in British English; lower, more marked usage in American English.
Grammar
How to Use “forty winks” in a Sentence
SUBJ + have/take + forty winksSUBJ + catch + forty winksSUBJ + snatch + forty winksVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “forty winks” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- I'm just going to forty-wink in the armchair.
- He forty-winked through the afternoon film.
American English
- (Rarely verbed; US speakers would say 'nap' or 'snooze')
adverb
British English
- (Not used as adverb)
American English
- (Not used as adverb)
adjective
British English
- He had a forty-wink nap on the sofa.
- (Generally not used as adjective)
American English
- (Not used as adjective)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might be used humorously: 'I'll just take forty winks before the afternoon presentations.'
Academic
Virtually never used.
Everyday
Primary context. Used in informal conversation, often at home or with friends.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “forty winks”
- Using it as an uncountable noun (*I need some forty winks* is less idiomatic than *I need forty winks*).
- Using it to mean a full night's sleep.
- Saying *forty winks* for a sleep of several hours.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the number 'forty' is not literal. It's an idiomatic expression meaning a short, indefinite period of sleep.
No, it is an informal, figurative expression. In formal contexts, use terms like 'a brief rest', 'a short nap', or 'a period of sleep'.
It's more idiomatic to use specific verbs like 'have', 'take', 'catch', or 'snatch' with 'forty winks' (e.g., 'I had forty winks'). 'Slept' is less common with this phrase.
They are synonyms, but 'forty winks' is more informal, idiomatic, and often implies a sleep that is even shorter, lighter, or more opportunistic than a standard 'nap'. It also has a more whimsical tone.
A short sleep, especially during the day.
Forty winks: in British English it is pronounced /ˌfɔː.ti ˈwɪŋks/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌfɔːr.t̬i ˈwɪŋks/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “catch forty winks”
- “snatch forty winks”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a clock: 40 minutes is a short time, and 'winks' are like the quick closing of the eyes. '40 Winks' = a short sleep.
Conceptual Metaphor
SLEEP IS A COUNTABLE, SMALL OBJECT (you can 'take' or 'catch' it). LIGHT SLEEP IS BLINKING (winking).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most likely meaning of 'forty winks'?