What's the origin of "Zzz"?

Question

Anyone know? Why is it Zzz and not Hhh or something else for a snoring sound?

Answer 1

I would think it is just an example of Onomatopoeia. Though it is strange how in different languages animals are considered to make different sounds. * In case you don't remember, onomatopoeia MEANS a word that sounds like a sound...the way zzzz sounds like snoring.

I would not be surprised to find the usage predates comics. People have been sleeping (and snoring) far longer than there have been artists drawing cartoons of sleepers. IMHOP

Answer 2

Z denotes the sound of sleeping or snoring, often represented as "zzz...". This has led to the phrase: "Catching some Z's". Why, I don't know, but it's true ... somehow Americans felt that the onomatopoeia was appropriate. Eh ??

Answer 3

The shorter the word, the more likely it is to have it's origin in many languages and cultures and therefore have multiple meanings. This is called a FALSE COGNATE. I studied linguistics and this bears out. In Egyptian culture, Amen might be a god, in Hebrew culture Amen might be an affirmation that something is true or valid. So, if you ask what is the origin of the Hebrew word Amen, instead of Amen in general, you will get a more specific answer.

Answer 4

origin zzz

Answer 5

snoring has a raspy sound, not a sighing sound. Deviated septum is the cause, which is devious, non?

Answer 6

Perhaps it refers to the whistling sounds of the exhalation of the snorer.

Answer 7

I think it originated in newspaper cartoons....but I don't remember why it was Zzzzs.

Answer 8

cartoons