Sleepily/ˈsliːpɪli/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Non-Energy Use 'sleepily' to describe actions lacking energy due to tiredness. After studying all night, he answered the phone sleepily. Pro Tip 2/3Morning Routine 'Sleepily' is often used to describe someone's state during their morning activities. She walked to the bathroom sleepily, rubbing her eyes. Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Reluctance The adverb can imply a subtle reluctance to wake up or start the day. He sleepily hit the snooze button, not ready to rise.