SLEEPER Meaning and
Definition
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A "sleeper" is a term that can be used to describe multiple objects or situations and encompasses several definitions. One common interpretation refers to a person who is sleeping or has fallen asleep. In this context, a sleeper is someone who is actively in a state of slumber, dormant, and unaware of their surroundings.
In another sense, a "sleeper" can refer to a type of furniture commonly known as a sleeper sofa or sleeper couch. This versatile piece of furniture serves the dual purpose of providing a comfortable seating option during the day and converting into a bed for sleeping at night. The term "sleeper" is used to emphasize the hidden or unexpected functionality of the piece.
Additionally, a "sleeper" might refer to a person, group, or thing that has been underestimated or disregarded but eventually achieves great success or surpasses expectations. This usage is commonly employed in sports or competitive contexts, where a "sleeper team" is considered an underdog but manages to surprise and triumph against more established opponents.
Finally, a "sleeper" can refer to a train or bus journey that takes place overnight, allowing passengers to sleep during the travel and reach their destination by morning. This definition emphasizes the comfort and convenience of traveling while being able to rest during the journey.
In summary, the term "sleeper" can denote a person or object related to sleep, including one who is sleeping, a versatile furniture piece that converts into a bed, a person or thing that overachieves, and overnight transportation options that enable resting during travel.
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One who sleeps; a lazy person; one of the pieces of timber placed lengthwise on walls to support the joists of a floor; in railways, slabs of timber laid across the permanent way to support the rails, and to which the chairs are fastened.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SLEEPER
Etymology of SLEEPER
The word "sleeper" has evolved from its Old English origins to its current meaning. The term can be traced back to the Old English word "slæpan", which meant "to sleep". Over time, the word underwent various phonetic changes and subtle shifts in meaning. In Middle English, it became "sleper", referring to someone who sleeps or a person who is asleep.
The term "sleeper" later took on additional senses. It began to refer to a railway car with sleeping compartments in the mid-19th century. The idea behind this usage was that passengers could sleep while traveling long distances, thus the term "sleeper" was borrowed to describe such specialized train cars.
Additionally, "sleeper" developed a figurative meaning in the mid-20th century.
Similar spelling words for SLEEPER
- slippery,
- slavery,
- slover,
- slippered,
- slivery,
- sliver,
- slipper,
- sleepers,
- slobber,
- slabber,
- slaver,
- slapper.
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