1 B2 idiomatic informal
To fall into a deep sleep very suddenly, especially after great physical or mental effort
"He zonked out on the sofa within minutes of getting home from the night shift."
inseparable
zonk out
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
To fall suddenly and deeply asleep, usually because of exhaustion
In plain English
To fall fast asleep very quickly, usually because you are totally worn out
What does "zonk out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To be made to fall asleep by a drug, medication, or alcoholic drink
"The sleeping pills zonked her out completely — she didn't wake until noon."
separable
Usage tip
Very vivid and informal. Common in British and American English. Implies not just falling asleep but doing so heavily and completely. Also occasionally used for the effect of a sedative or sleeping pill.
Words that pair with "zonk out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
couch sofa bed immediately exhausted medication
How to conjugate "zonk out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
zonk out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
zonks out
he/she/it
Past simple
zonked out
yesterday
Past participle
zonked out
have + pp
-ing form
zonking out
continuous
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