heavy lidded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "heavy lidded" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone whose eyelids appear droopy or heavy, often suggesting tiredness or a relaxed state. Example: "After a long day at work, she sat on the couch with heavy lidded eyes, struggling to stay awake."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Mr. Behrman was heavy lidded, his conversation sluggish, as though he were nursing a hangover, the souvenir of a lifetime of excess.

The New York Times - Style

Heat the oil over medium heat in a large, heavy, lidded skillet or Dutch oven, and add the olive oil.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Excitedly, Dan opened the heavy lid.

The Guardian

Most arresting were the black crystals beneath his heavy lids.

The New York Times

"Because of the rain," she said, her eyes sly beneath heavy lids.

The New York Times

It was as if a heavy lid had slammed shut within me.

The New Yorker

Q. Circle all the adverbs in the sentence below: "Excitedly, Dan opened the heavy lid.

Independent

But this uprising has lifted the heavy lid off this society and let in oxygen.

The New York Times

Her heavy lids descend, narrowing her eyes, and then her eyebrows rise and pinch the flesh above her nose reprovingly.

The Guardian - Film

This rather limits the scope of his taste, which lifts its heavy lids only when subjected to blazes of sensation.

The New Yorker

From under his heavy lids, the green eyes flecked with hazel sent a lazy appealing glance, like Alan's.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "heavy lidded" to subtly convey a character's state of fatigue, relaxation, or even a hint of world-weariness. It adds a layer of detail that enhances the description.

Common error

Avoid using "heavy lidded" in contexts where alertness or attentiveness is desired. The phrase generally implies a lack of energy or focus, and misusing it can create the wrong impression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heavy lidded" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun (usually "eyes" or a pronoun referring to a person). It serves to describe a physical characteristic related to the appearance of the eyelids. As Ludwig AI suggests, it aptly depicts someone's state of fatigue.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "heavy lidded" is a grammatically sound and descriptively rich term used to portray a state of drowsiness, fatigue, or relaxation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase functions as an adjective modifying a noun, typically "eyes", to convey a specific physical characteristic. Predominantly found in news and media sources, "heavy lidded" adds a subtle layer of detail to character descriptions, painting a vivid picture of weariness or languor. While not overly common, it remains a useful and expressive tool for writers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heavy eyelids

Directly indicates the weight or heaviness of the eyelids.

droopy eyelids

Focuses on the physical appearance of the eyelids being droopy.

drooping eyes

Similar to droopy eyelids, emphasizing the downward slant.

sleepy eyes

Emphasizes the appearance of being tired or needing sleep.

tired eyes

Highlights the appearance of fatigue in the eyes.

drowsy eyes

Indicates a state of being sleepy or half-asleep.

languid eyes

Suggests a lack of energy or a relaxed state in the eyes.

hooded eyes

Describes a specific eye shape where the upper eyelid covers a significant portion of the eye.

listless eyes

Suggests a lack of interest or energy in the eyes.

sultry eyes

Implies a seductive or alluring look, often associated with lowered or partially closed eyelids.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone is described as "heavy lidded"?

Being described as "heavy lidded" typically means someone's eyelids appear droopy or partially closed, often implying they are tired, sleepy, or perhaps even bored. It can also suggest a relaxed or languid state.

What are some synonyms for "heavy lidded"?

Alternatives to "heavy lidded" include "sleepy eyes", "droopy eyelids", "tired eyes", or "drowsy eyes". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe someone as "heavy lidded"?

Yes, it is generally appropriate to describe someone as "heavy lidded" as long as it is done respectfully and accurately reflects their appearance. It's a descriptive term, and its appropriateness depends on the context and your relationship with the person.

How can I use the phrase "heavy lidded" in a sentence?

You might say, "After the long meeting, he looked at me with "heavy lidded" eyes." Or, "Her "heavy lidded" gaze gave her an air of mystery."