Pronunciation: [kˈatnaps] (IPA) 
Catnaps is spelled with a "c" followed by an "a" and a "t", all pronounced as expected /kæt/. The "n" is pronounced with the tongue touching the roof of the mouth behind the teeth, like the "n" in the word "win" /n/. The vowel sound in "naps" is the same as the vowel in "cat", /æ/. The "s" at the end is pronounced as the unvoiced "s" sound, with the tongue touching the roof of the mouth, like in the word "bus" /s/.
Catnaps, noun, plural (also used in singular form), informal
1. Brief periods of light sleep or dozing, typically lasting for just a few minutes. These short and refreshing naps are usually taken by individuals to recharge or rest briefly during the day without entering into a deep sleep state.
2. Short power naps characterized by light or shallow sleep, where individuals maintain a level of consciousness, albeit in a relaxed and drowsy state. Catnaps are commonly practiced to enhance alertness, productivity, and focus throughout the day.
The term "catnaps" is a colloquial expression that draws inspiration from the tendency of cats to exhibit short and intermittent periods of sleep. Similar to a cat's napping habits, catnaps involve slipping into a light slumber that allows for a quick rejuvenation without entering into a deep sleep cycle.
Catnaps are often associated with feelings of refreshed energy, mental clarity, and improved cognitive performance. They are especially popular during work breaks, when busy schedules, exhaustion, or sleep deprivation call for a brief moment of reenergizing.
While catnaps are generally short-lived, ranging from a few minutes to around 20 minutes, they are believed to offer numerous benefits, such as increased alertness, enhanced focus, and improved memory consolidation. However, it is important to note that catnaps should not replace a full night's sleep, but rather serve as a supplementary method to combat temporary fatigue or to recharge during the day.
The word "catnaps" is derived from the combination of "cat" and "nap". The word "cat" originates from Old English "catt", which was likely borrowed from Late Latin "catus". The term "nap" comes from Middle English "nippen", meaning "to take a quick sleep". In the 18th century, "catnaps" came into use to describe short, light naps that resemble the way cats intermittently sleep throughout the day. The association with cats and their tendency to momentarily doze off inspired the term "catnaps" to describe brief periods of rest or sleep.
