insomnia

noun

in·​som·​nia in-ˈsäm-nē-ə 

: prolonged and usually abnormal inability to get enough sleep especially due to trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

chronic insomnia

Insomnia is a patient-reported problem characterized by difficulty falling asleep or difficulty maintaining sleep; ie, frequent awakenings, difficulty returning to sleep after awakenings, or awakening too early with inability to return to sleep.

—Daniel J. Buysse

Synonyms

• sleeplessness
• wakefulness

Examples of insomnia in a Sentence

has suffered from insomnia virtually his entire life

Recent Examples on the Web

Passionflower Researchers have found that this gorgeous purple flower contains mood-boosting neurotransmitters that may help treat anxiety, insomnia, and pain. —Valentina Bottoni, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2024

Side effects reported include insomnia and stomach upset. —Mary Choy, Health, 21 Oct. 2024

If addressed before the infection presents symptoms, including hallucinations, insomnia and seizures, treatment for rabies exposure is typically effective. —Brooke Park, San Antonio Express-News, 20 Oct. 2024

The most common side effects with modafinil were insomnia and anxiety. —Lisa Rapaport, EverydayHealth.com, 17 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from insomnis sleepless, from in- + somnus sleep — more at somnolent

First Known Use

1739, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

insomnia

noun

in·​som·​nia in-ˈsäm-nē-ə 

: prolonged inability to sleep

Medical Definition

insomnia

noun

in·​som·​nia in-ˈsäm-nē-ə 

: prolonged and usually abnormal inability to obtain adequate sleep especially due to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

called also agrypnia