Snooze

Snooze is a short period of sleep taken after an initial awakening, or the act of dozing briefly. In everyday language it also refers to the snooze function found on clocks and electronic devices that delays the next alarm by a preset interval, typically a few minutes.

Etymology and usage: The term entered English in the early 20th century as a colloquial form for dozing. Its exact origins are unclear, but it is generally viewed as an onomatopoeic or playful extension of doze, sometimes linked to the sound parody of snoring.

Mechanism and devices: Snooze durations vary by device. Classic alarm clocks often use about nine minutes, but settings range from four to twenty minutes or allow variable intervals. Some devices allow multiple consecutive snoozes, while others require turning off the alarm to proceed. Modern smartphones and apps may offer additional wake-up options such as gradual alarms or different snooze patterns.

Effects on sleep and practical considerations: Repeatedly snoozing can fragment sleep and prolong grogginess due to sleep inertia, the transitional period after waking. A single brief nap can improve alertness, whereas many short awakenings tend to leave a person less rested. Practical guidance includes maintaining a regular sleep schedule, placing the alarm away from the bed, and using snooze sparingly or avoiding it if possible to achieve a more consistent wake time.