Nota: La traducción de esta entrada está actualmente en revisión de calidad, por lo que parte del contenido se muestra temporalmente solo en inglés.
Esta entrada aún no se ha traducido a tu idioma, así que se muestra el original a continuación.
sleepwalk
The literal meaning refers to a parasomnia where a person physically walks while asleep. In this context, it is a neutral, descriptive term used in medical or personal health contexts. It is often associated with childhood or high-stress periods.
Metaphorically, "sleepwalking" describes a state of passive existence. It suggests that a person is going through the motions of their life, job, or a relationship without any passion, consciousness, or intentionality. This usage carries a strong negative connotation of apathy, boredom, or a lack of agency.
When used metaphorically, it is frequently paired with the preposition "through" (e.g., sleepwalking through a career), emphasizing a continuous period of mindless activity rather than a single event.
Meanings
Examples
I used to sleepwalk as a child and often ended up in the kitchen.
Stop sleepwalking through your life and start making some real decisions.
He was sleepwalking again last night and almost walked out the front door.
I feel like I have been sleepwalking through this entire project.
Did you really sleepwalk all the way to the living room?
The patient described a history of frequent sleepwalk episodes during stressful periods.
She just sleepwalks through the meeting without contributing a single idea.