doze
UK[dəʊz]US[doʊz]
v
To sleep lightly for a short time.
n
A short, light sleep.
Etymology
The verb 'doze' entered English in the mid-17th century, likely borrowed from the Old Norse word 'dúsa', meaning 'to doze, rest, or be quiet'. This Norse term is related to the Danish 'døse' and the Swedish 'dosa', both conveying a sense of drowsiness or slumber. The word's journey reflects a common path for terms describing basic, universal human states, entering English from the languages of the Viking settlers and traders. Its specific, gentle meaning—a light, often unintentional sleep—has remained remarkably stable since its adoption, capturing the quiet, passive nature of the action it describes.
Analysis
The word 'doze' is a simplex word of Scandinavian origin. It does not contain separable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
He began to doze off during the long lecture.
I had a quick doze on the sofa after lunch.
The steady hum of the engine made her doze.