Definition & Meaning of "sleeper"

Sleeper

NOUN

a rester who is sleeping

pajamas with feet; worn by children

a sleeping section or berth in a train or other means of transportation

a horizontal support beam that connects the rails of a railroad track and helps distribute the weight of passing trains

a movie, novel, play, etc. that is initially underappreciated, but gains sudden and unexpected success later on

What is a "sleeper"?

A sleeper is a film, book, or other media that initially goes unnoticed or receives little attention but later gains popularity and success. Despite a modest or unremarkable start, a sleeper eventually attracts a large audience or significant acclaim over time. This term often describes works that exceed expectations and become unexpectedly popular or influential.

tropical fish that resembles a goby and rests quietly on the bottom in shallow water

a piece of furniture that can be opened up into a bed

an unexpected achiever of success

a spy or saboteur or terrorist planted in an enemy country who lives there as a law-abiding citizen until activated by a prearranged signal