HIBERNATION Definition & Meaning

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hibernation

[hahy-ber-ney-shuhn]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a state of winter dormancy in some animals, in which normal annual rhythms slow the heart, breathing, and metabolic rates to a minimum, and the animal sleeps deeply in protective quarters.

hibernation

An inactive state resembling deep sleep in which certain animals living in cold climates pass the winter. In hibernation, the body temperature is lowered and breathing and heart rates slow down. Hibernation protects the animal from cold and reduces the need for food during the season when food is scarce.
Compare estivation

hibernation

Passing the winter in a sleeping or inactive condition. Bears, ground squirrels, woodchucks, and several other kinds of animals hibernate.

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51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of hibernation¹

First recorded in 1680–90; hibernat(e) ( def. ) + -ion ( def. )

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Then came winter, with the Padres going into hibernation as the Dodgers signed most of the free world.

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Nuguse's pet tortoise Tyro has only been out of hibernation for a few days when we speak, but the laid-back athlete is grateful to have his companion back.

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“But when your body shuts down in that hibernation state, like in these animals, those reactive oxygen species stop getting produced as much, and then there seems to be less damage caused by the radiation.”

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And if I managed to yank myself out of hibernation and force myself to find what I was missing, anyone could.

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"The fact that there are active workers means not only have the queens awakened from hibernation but they have gone to the extent of starting new nests."

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Related 51�Թ�s

coma��
dream��
slumber��
trance��

hibernate Hibernia

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