1. spending the winter in a dormant state with reduced body temperature and metabolic activity
Usage: present participle of hibernate
2. remaining inactive or withdrawn for an extended period
Usage: figurative use

1. in a state of hibernation or dormancy

Examples

• The bears are hibernating in their cave until spring.
• Many animals spend months hibernating to survive the cold winter.
• The hibernating groundhog won’t emerge until February.
• After the busy season, the resort town seems to be hibernating.
• She’s been hibernating in her room all weekend, avoiding social events.
• The hibernating computer uses minimal power while in sleep mode.
• Scientists study hibernating mammals to understand their survival mechanisms.