Emily Dickinson Lexicon

SLEEP, v.i. [pret. and pp. slept. Sax. slepan, slæpan; Goth. slepan; G. schlafen; D. slaapen. This word seems to be allied to words which signify to rest or to relax; G. schlaff.]

1. To take rest by a suspension of the voluntary exercise of the powers of the body and mind. The proper time to sleep is during the darkness of night.
2. To rest; to be unemployed; to be inactive or motionless; as, the sword sleeps in its sheath.
3. To rest; to lie or be still; not to be noticed or agitated. The question sleeps for the present.
4. To live thoughtlessly. We sleep over our happiness. – Atterbury.
5. To be dead; to rest in the grave for a time. – 1 Thess. iv.
6. To be careless, inattentive, or unconcerned; not to be vigilant. – Shak.