Count sheep

usgb
verb

An activity when a person tries to fall asleep by slowly counting imaginary sheep jumping over a fence in their mind.

I have trouble sleeping, so I often count sheep before bed.
Visual representation of "count sheep" - An activity when a person tries to fall asleep by slowly counting imaginary sheep jumping over a fence in their mind.

Often appears as...

  • count sheep to sleep
  • begin to count sheep
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "count sheep"
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Relaxing Imagery

The phrase evokes a calm, monotonous activity meant to induce sleep by picturing a repetitive motion.

Illustration for Relaxing Imagery
When she couldn't sleep, she tried to count sheep, imagining them hopping one by one.
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Not Literal

Counting sheep is not a literal action but a mental exercise for relaxation and sleep.

Illustration for Not Literal
You don't really count sheep, just picture them in your mind as you try to fall asleep.
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Cultural Classic

The idea of counting sheep is widely recognized in English-speaking cultures as a common sleep aid.

Illustration for Cultural Classic
He joked that he got so bored at work, he might as well have been counting sheep.
Visual representation of the word "Count sheep"

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