nap
UK[nap]US[næp]
v
to sleep for a short time, especially during the day
n
a short sleep, especially during the day
n
the short, fine threads on the surface of a fabric such as velvet or suede
Etymology
the modern english word 'nap' descends directly from the old english verb 'hnappian', meaning 'to doze' or 'to sleep lightly'. this term is of germanic origin, likely related to the old high german 'hnaffezen', with a core sense of nodding or slumbering. the semantic connection to the short, fuzzy fibers on cloth, first recorded in the 15th century, is metaphoric, likening the soft surface to the downy or woolly texture associated with sleep and comfort. thus, a single, compact word carries two distinct yet poetically linked meanings rooted in physical sensation and rest.
Analysis
the word 'nap' is a simplex word of old english origin, representing a single, indivisible lexical unit.
Examples
the baby will usually nap for an hour after lunch.
i'm going to take a quick nap before the evening meeting.
the velvet has a rich, soft nap that feels luxurious to the touch.