Assonnare

Assonnare is an Italian verb that translates to "to make sleepy" or "to make drowsy." It describes the feeling of becoming tired and on the verge of falling asleep. The verb can be used in various contexts to express this sensation. For example, one might say the warm weather makes them assonnare, indicating it induces sleepiness. Similarly, a monotonous lecture could assonnare the audience.

The verb is typically used in the reflexive form, "assonnarsi," meaning "to become sleepy" or "to feel drowsy." For instance, "Mi assono" means "I am becoming sleepy." It can also be used transitively, as in "Il calore mi assonna" (The heat makes me sleepy). The adjective derived from this verb is "assonnato," which means sleepy or drowsy. Someone described as assonnato is exhibiting signs of tiredness and a desire to sleep.

The sensation of assonnare is a natural physiological response to fatigue, certain environmental conditions, or specific activities. It signifies a reduction in alertness and a readiness for rest. While often associated with mundane or relaxing situations, it can also be a symptom of illness or medication side effects, though this is not its primary or most common meaning.