Better Words
Better Words for Tired: From Sleepy to Burned Out
Say exactly how tired you are with words like drowsy, drained, exhausted and burned out, with meanings, examples and a quiz.
By Vocabaura Editorial · Published 27 September 2026 · 4 min read
Quick answer
Sleepy or drowsy means you want to sleep. Worn out and drained mean your energy is used up. Exhausted is extremely tired, and burned out means long-term tiredness from too much stress or work.
Tired can mean you stayed up late, ran a marathon, or have worked too hard for months. The right word tells people which one, and how serious it is.
Needing sleep
Low on energy
worn out
adjective
Tired after a lot of activity.
“The kids were worn out after the beach.”
weary
adjective
Tired from effort or from dealing with something for a long time.
“Weary travelers waited at the gate.”
fatigued
adjective
Very tired; a more formal or medical word.
“Patients may feel fatigued for several days.”
Extremely tired
burned out
adjective
Worn down by long-term stress or overwork.
“He felt burned out after a year without a vacation.”
Casual
I'm wiped out, I'm going to bed early.
Work email
I'm feeling a bit drained today, so I'll finish the report tomorrow morning.
Formal
Participants reported feeling fatigued after the exercise.
Quick check
Which word means: Ready to fall asleep?
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Quick quiz
0 of 2 answered
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1. Which word fits a doctor's note?
2. Months of overwork have left her…