WordWeb Online

1. A periodic state during which you are conscious and aware of the world
   "consciousness during wakefulness in a sane person is pretty well ordered and familiar"
    
2. A temporary state in which you are unable (or unwilling) to sleep
   "accept your wakefulness and sleep in its own contrary way is more likely to come"
   - sleeplessness
    
3. The process of paying close and continuous attention
   "wakefulness, watchfulness, and bellicosity make a good hunter"
   - watchfulness, vigilance, alertness

Derived forms: wakefulnesses

See also: wakeful

Type of: attention, physical condition, physiological condition, physiological state, temporary state, waking

Antonym: sleepiness

Encyclopedia: Wakefulness