What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
soporiferous
Example
The soporiferous effects of the medication made it difficult to stay awake. [soporiferous: adjective]
Example
The sound of the rain was soporiferous, lulling me into a peaceful slumber. [soporiferous: adjective]
somniferous
Example
The somniferous effects of the sleeping pill helped me fall asleep quickly. [somniferous: adjective]
Example
The warm and cozy bed was somniferous, making it hard to get up in the morning. [somniferous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Somniferous is more commonly used than soporiferous in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between soporiferous and somniferous?
Both words have a formal tone due to their Latin roots, but soporiferous may be considered more technical or scientific in nature.