Meanings
A modern translation of Latin, virtus dormitiva, coined by Molière in The Imaginary Invalid. In the play, he lampoons a group of physicians providing an explanation in macaronic Latin of the sleep-inducing properties of opium as stemming from its "virtus dormitiva".
A type of tautology in which an item is explained in terms of the item itself, only put in different (usually more abstract) words.
Example Sentences
1
The novel had a dormitive principle, as it made me so sleepy that I fell asleep within minutes.
2
The soft music had a dormitive principle, lulling me into a deep and restful slumber.
3
His monotonous voice had a dormitive principle, causing most of the audience to doze off.
4
The soothing scent of lavender had a dormitive principle, helping me relax and fall asleep.
5
The rhythmic sound of rain had a dormitive principle, making me feel drowsy and calm.
