What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hibernation
Example
Bears go into hibernation during the winter months. [hibernation: noun]
Example
The frog's body temperature drops during hibernation. [hibernation: noun]
torpor
Example
The snake entered a state of torpor to conserve energy. [torpor: noun]
Example
The hummingbird goes into torpor at night to conserve energy. [torpor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hibernation is more commonly used than torpor in everyday language, especially when referring to animals' winter behavior. Torpor is less common and is typically used in scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hibernation and torpor?
Hibernation is more formal than torpor, which is typically used in scientific contexts.
