The Danish roots of the word 'doze'

'Doze' is a word borrowed from Danish 'døse'. The word entered the English language some time around 1677.

doze [verb] [1677]

• to sleep lightly
• to fall into a light sleep
• usually used with 'off'
• to be in a dull or stupefied condition
• to pass (as time) drowsily

Meaning: to sleep lightly; to fall into a light sleep usually used with off; to be in a dull or stupefied condition.

Etymology: perhaps of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse dusa to doze.

Topics: Health:Wellness.

Origin: From Danish to English.

note: Perhaps related to Danish døse ‘make drowsy’.

See 'doze' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from Danish.

See more loan words from 1600s.