hibernate

verb

hi·​ber·​nate ˈhī-bər-ˌnāt How to pronounce hibernate (audio)
hibernated; hibernating

intransitive verb

1
: to pass the winter in a torpid or resting state
bears hibernating in their dens
2
: to be or become inactive or dormant
let the computer hibernate
hibernation noun
hibernator noun

Examples of hibernate in a Sentence

bears hibernating in their dens
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.
But at a Memorial Day cookout, I was reminded of the joys of pre-roasted green chiles that can hibernate in your freezer, then reemerge as incredible snacks and toppings. John Wenzel, Denver Post, 9 June 2025 Cold Temperatures for an Insect Like hibernating bears, many insects slow their bodily processes during the tough winter months. Cody Cottier, Discover Magazine, 8 Mar. 2025 After hibernating for several months, the den's snakes are starting to emerge to shed their skins and soak up the sun. Rachel Flynn, People.com, 14 May 2025 The sinkhole has gone unrepaired since then, and it’s grown deep and wide enough that a bear might choose to hibernate in it, curling up beneath the trees that have taken root in the cavity. Justin Davidson, Curbed, 18 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hibernate

Word History

Etymology

Latin hibernatus, past participle of hibernare to pass the winter, from hibernus of winter; akin to Latin hiems winter, Greek cheimōn

First Known Use

1816, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hibernate was in 1816

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hibernate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hibernate. Accessed 28 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

hibernate

verb
hi·​ber·​nate ˈhī-bər-ˌnāt How to pronounce hibernate (audio)
hibernated; hibernating
: to pass the winter in a sleeping or resting state
hibernation noun
hibernator noun

Medical Definition

hibernate

intransitive verb
hi·​ber·​nate ˈhī-bər-ˌnāt How to pronounce hibernate (audio)
hibernated; hibernating
: to pass the winter in a torpid or resting state
especially : to pass the winter in a torpid condition in which the body temperature drops to a little above freezing and metabolic activity is reduced nearly to zero compare estivate
hibernation noun
hibernator noun

More from Merriam-Webster on hibernate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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