intr.v. hi·ber·nat·ed, hi·ber·nat·ing, hi·ber·nates 1. To be in a dormant or torpid state during a cold period, especially during the winter. 2. To be in an inactive or dormant state or period: "In Lawrenceville people hibernated and life passed them by" (Jacqueline Susann). [Latin hībernāre, hībernāt-, to winter, from hībernus, relating to winter; see ghei- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] hi′ber·nation n. hiber·na′tor n. |
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