noun
sandman
SAND-man/sˈændmˌæn/
An imaginary figure who brings sleep and dreams.
The sandman scatters dream sand above the sleeping child.
Etymology
The “sand man” probably connects sleep with the grains found in eyelashes on waking, or with rubbing tired eyes as though clearing away grit. Nursery lore turns that familiar sensation into a person who brings sleep.
In context
time to sprinkle sleep dust all over the little children then the sandman gets up opens his umbrella and floats down to earth tonight i'll start with anne thought the sandman
More examples
- The story welcomed the sandman each night.
- She drew the sandman with a little sack.
- The child wondered when the sandman would arrive.
Forms
sandman