power nap

American  

[pou-er nap] / ˈpaʊ ər ˌnæp /

noun

power naps plural

1. a brief sleep during the day, taken for the desired effect of improving one’s alertness and ability to work efficiently throughout the remainder of the day.

   The only thing I have left to do before the presentation is to take a 20-minute power nap.

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verb (used without object)

1. to take a brief sleep during the day in order to improve one’s alertness and ability to work efficiently throughout the remainder of the day.

   Since he started power napping, his midafternoons have become much more productive.

power nap British  

noun

1. a short sleep taken during the working day with the intention of improving the quality of work later in the day

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• power naps
  plural

Etymology

Origin of power nap

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

“Keep naps short and sweet. A power nap of 20-30 minutes can renew attention span and refresh the body,” the Napping Page advised.

From Washington Times • May 16, 2023

But the wandering reptile was discovered last week, seemingly having had a "power nap" at a nearby electricity substation.

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2023

Whether it’s a 20-minute power nap or prioritizing an earlier bedtime, studies have shown that sleep is an imperative ingredient in physical and mental development.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 13, 2022

“It is not like you can take a power nap and wake up with a solution right away,” Oudiette says.

From Science Magazine • Dec. 7, 2021

I like to take a good lunch break, and then immediately afterward take a 20-minute power nap.

From New York Times • Oct. 23, 2015