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sleep pressure

American  
[sleep presh-er] / ˈslip ˈprɛʃ ər /

noun

plural

sleep pressures
  1. the physiological need to sleep, increasing in intensity the longer someone is awake.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Increased homeostatic sleep pressure could combine with dull proceedings and/or a sense of confidence and safe surroundings to reduce vigilance and allow sleepiness to win.”

From Slate • Apr. 29, 2024

"This suggests that rumination reduces sleep pressure, which could benefit the reindeer because it means they don't have to compromise on sleep recovery when they spend more time ruminating," says Furrer.

From Science Daily • Dec. 22, 2023

She said the point of wake windows is to manage sleep pressure.

From Salon • May 12, 2023

As a result, caffeine works to temporarily suppress sleep pressure, making us feel more awake.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 13, 2021

The most effective treatment for insomnia is a better understanding of sleep physiology, notably restricting sleep to increase sleep pressure and break the vicious circle.

From Nature • Feb. 26, 2018