forty winks
1
a short, light nap or brief sleep taken to rest and regain energy
The idiom "forty winks" is believed to have originated from the practice of taking a brief, refreshing nap or short sleep during the day. The idea of "forty winks" suggests a short, light slumber that is usually not long enough to be a full sleep cycle but long enough to provide a quick rejuvenation. The phrase has been in use since the 19th century to describe the act of taking a short nap, often to restore one's energy and alertness.
- During the lunch break, I like to take forty winks in my office to recharge for the afternoon.
- After the long road trip, I pulled over at a rest area and took forty winks to feel more refreshed.
- The conference was exhausting, so I found a quiet corner to take a quick forty winks.
- He had a hectic schedule, but he managed to squeeze in forty winks on the train ride home.
- Whenever I'm feeling tired and need a quick energy boost, I'll take forty winks before continuing my work.
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