The word "somnal" is written with an 'm' in the middle, despite being pronounced with an 'n' sound. This is because the letter 'm' is sometimes used to represent a nasal consonant in English. Phonetically, the word can be transcribed as /sɒmnəl/ with a small superscript 'n' above the 'm' to indicate that the sound is nasal. "Somnal" means relating to or inducing sleep, which is appropriate given its similarity to the word "somnolent."
Thesaurus Word Definition:
Somnal (noun) refers to a state or condition of sleepiness, drowsiness, or the inclination to sleep. It pertains to the quality or characteristic of inducing sleep or causing someone to feel relaxed and sleepy. It can be used to describe a drug, medicine, or any substance that produces sedative effects. Somnal can also represent a feeling of calmness, tranquility, or serenity that promotes sleep or relaxation. As a noun, it signifies a state or condition of deep slumber, the absence of wakefulness, or a state of being unconscious.
Somnal is derived from the Latin word "somnus," meaning sleep. It carries a connotation of inducing a state of sleep or the desire to sleep. The term is often utilized in scientific literature, medical contexts, or discussions concerning sleep disorders, sedatives, or medications promoting sleep. It may also find usage when discussing meditation or relaxation techniques that aid in achieving a peaceful state of mind facilitating sleep.
In summary, somnal refers to a condition of sleepiness, drowsiness, or the inclination to sleep. It can describe substances that induce sleep or a feeling of relaxation conducive to serenity. It represents a state of deep slumber or unconsciousness, often linked to scientific, medical, or sleep-related contexts.
An hypnotic compound of alcohol, chloral, and urethane, ethylated chloral-urethane; dose gr. 15-30 (1.0-2.0).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.