A common idiom which can be found in the English language is sleep tight. But what is the meaning of this term and how do we use in it a conversation? We will be looking at the answers to both of the questions by taking a look at some examples of the phrase being used. We are also going to find out a little bit of history behind the term and where it originally came from.
Sleep Tight
Sleep Tight Meaning
When someone tells you to sleep tight, they are wishing you a good sleep for the night. The term often comes accompanied by the word goodnight.
Origin of this phrase
Many people believe that the term sleep tight originates from the strings used to support a mattress as these are pulled tight. However, this is said to be a misconception and that the word tight simply refers to a sound sleep.
“Sleep Tight” Examples
Examples in Statements
We are now going to take a look at the phrase sleep tight being used in some sentences.
The first sentence is being made by a mother to her child.
- I hope you have a nice sleep, goodnight, sleep tight.
This next example is taken from a bedtime story.
- The princess lay down to sleep and the prince told her to sleep tight.
Conversation Examples
You are likely to hear the term sleep tight often when listening to English conversation so we are now going to take a look at some examples of it being used in day to day conversation.
The first conversation is taking place between a husband and wife who are lying in bed, reading.
- Person 1: “I am getting very tired now.”
- Person 2: “Put your book down and go to sleep then.”
- Person 1: “I think I will.”
- Person 2: “Sleep tight.”
The next conversation is happening between two friends on a phone call.
- Person 1: “I think I am going to end the call now, I am ready for bed.”
- Person 2: “OK, I will speak to you tomorrow, goodnight and sleep tight.”
More helpful examples:
- I don’t sleep tight so that’s all right.
- Good night, Davey. Sleep tight.
- Good night, sleep tight, don’t let the bedbug bite!
- With promises of endless ice cream when he awoke, Mama kissed her little son and bade him goodnight, sleep tight.
Other Ways to Say the Idiom
There are many other ways in which you can express the meaning of the term sleep tight by using other wording. Here are some examples of other things you could say which carry the same meaning.
- Sleep well
- Sleep soundly
- Goodnight
- Sweet dreams
- Sleep a peaceful sleep
Sleep Tight Meaning | Image
Last Updated on March 23, 2020