Langimage
English

sleeper

|sleep/er|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈsliːpər/

🇬🇧

/ˈsliːpə/

unexpected success

Etymology
Etymology Information

'sleeper' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'slǣpere,' where 'slǣp' meant 'sleep.'

Historical Evolution

'slǣpere' changed from Old English to the modern English word 'sleeper.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'one who sleeps,' but over time it evolved to include various meanings such as a train car or unexpected success.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person or animal who is asleep.

The baby is a sound sleeper.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

a train car with beds for passengers to sleep in.

We booked a sleeper for the overnight journey.

Synonyms

Noun 3

a piece of clothing, especially for infants, designed for sleeping.

The baby wore a soft sleeper to bed.

Synonyms

Noun 4

a person or thing that achieves unexpected success or recognition.

The film was a sleeper hit of the year.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/21 13:06