The phrase "darse de cabezadas" refers to the act of falling asleep briefly and intermittently, often in a sitting position. It is commonly used in informal contexts to describe someone who is dozing off, especially in situations where one is tired or bored. This phrase is more frequently used in oral speech than in written contexts.
English: After lunch, I nod off on the couch.
Spanish: Durante la conferencia, muchos asistentes se dieron de cabezadas.
English: During the conference, many attendees dozed off.
Spanish: Siempre que estoy en clase, me doy de cabezadas.
"Darse de cabezadas" is often part of the broader category of expressions that convey states of rest or fatigue.
English: I can't help but nod off when I'm on the train.
Spanish: A veces, en la oficina, me doy de cabezadas en la silla.
English: Sometimes, in the office, I doze off in my chair.
Spanish: Mi amigo se da de cabezadas en cualquier parte si está cansado.
English: My friend nods off anywhere if he is tired.
Spanish: En las reuniones largas, todos terminan dándose de cabezadas.
The phrase "darse de cabezadas" combines "darse" (to give oneself) and "cabezadas" (nods or head movements), derived from "cabeza" (head). As such, it literally translates to "to give oneself head nods." The expression implies a self-induced action of nodding off.
This comprehensive understanding of "darse de cabezadas" highlights its relevance in both casual conversation and the themes of fatigue and brief sleep states.