Translate sleeper | into German | into Italian | into Spanish Definition of sleeper
noun
1 [with adjective] a person or animal who is asleep or who sleeps in a specified way:he was a light sleeper, for long periods an insomniac
2a thing used for or connected with sleeping, in particular. a train carrying sleeping cars. a sleeping car, or a berth in one. (often
sleepers) chiefly
North American one-piece coverall pajamas for a baby or small child. North American a sofa or chair that converts into a bed.
3a movie, book, play, etc., that achieves sudden unexpected success after initially attracting little attention, typically one that proves popular without much promotion or expenditure. an antique whose true value goes unrecognized for some time. (also sleeper agent) a secret agent who remains inactive for a long period while establishing a secure position.
5a stocky fish with mottled coloration that occurs widely in warm seas and fresh water. - Dormitator and other genera, family Gobiidae (or Eleotridae): many species
