Phrasal verb
nod out
Definition
phrasal verb. to fall asleep quickly and without meaning to, especially while you are sitting in a chair. You use this when someone is very tired or bored.
phrasal verb. To fall asleep involuntarily, typically while in a seated position. The verb is intransitive and often functions as a slang term for the sedative effects of narcotics or extreme physical exhaustion.
Examples
“He was so tired that he started to nod out during the movie.”
“After working a double shift, Sarah found herself nodding out on the bus ride home.”
“The professor's lecture was so monotonous that several students in the back row began to nod out despite the looming final exam.”
Examples
simple
“He was so tired that he started to nod out during the movie.”
contextual
“After working a double shift, Sarah found herself nodding out on the bus ride home.”
complex
“The professor's lecture was so monotonous that several students in the back row began to nod out despite the looming final exam.”
Usage
This phrase is informal and usually describes someone falling asleep while sitting up.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'nod off'; while both mean falling asleep, 'nod out' is more informal and can sometimes imply a drug-induced stupor.
Pitfall
He nodded out to show he agreed with me.
He nodded to show he agreed with me.
'Nod out' refers to falling asleep, whereas 'nod' refers to the head gesture for agreement.
Phrasal verb
Particles
out
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
nod + out
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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