I need to catch some z's before the exam.
catch some z's
idiomTo sleep.
Origin
disputed originFrom the typical use of Zs in speech bubbles to represent the sounds a person makes when sleeping (especially snoring).
After the long flight, all she wanted was to catch some z's.
The weary traveler, having wandered lost through the city until dawn, finally collapsed into a cheap hotel bed to catch some z's.
- 01
catch a body
to kill, to murder
- 02
catch a break
To experience the minimal amount of good luck or a favorable outcome.
- 03
catch a case
To be infected with a disease; used with of.
- 04
catch a cold
To contract a cold.
- 05
catch a date
Of a prostitute, to secure a client who is willing to pay for services.
- 06
catch a fade
To get knocked out (struck and rendered unconscious).
- 07
catch a falling knife
To buy a financial instrument whose price is falling rapidly.
- 08
catch a packet
To be fired upon.
Last updated July 12, 2026