# comatose

/ˈkoʊməˌtoʊs/ (US) · /kˈəʊmɐtˌəʊz/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/comatose
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

in a deep sleep that you cannot wake up from. Doctors use this to describe someone who is unconscious and does not respond to anything.

For teachers: in a state of deep unconsciousness from which a person cannot be roused. Often used in medical contexts to describe a patient's level of consciousness.

## Examples

- The patient remained comatose for several weeks after the accident.
- After the severe head injury, the athlete was comatose for three days while the medical team monitored his brain activity.
- The patient's family gathered in the waiting room as the neurologist explained that the patient was comatose but showing signs of brainstem activity that suggested a potential for recovery.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.