Meaning of the word sleeper in English

What does sleeper mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

sleeper

US /ˈsliː.pɚ/
UK /ˈsliː.pər/
"sleeper" picture

Noun

1.

a person who sleeps, especially in a specified way

Example:
He's a light sleeper and wakes up at the slightest noise.
The baby is a heavy sleeper, so you can make some noise.
2.

a railway tie or cross-tie, a rectangular support for the rails in railroad tracks

Example:
The old railway line needed new sleepers.
Workers were replacing worn-out sleepers along the track.
3.

a train or bus designed for passengers to sleep in

Example:
We booked a sleeper for our overnight journey.
The train offers comfortable sleeper compartments.
4.

a person or thing that achieves unexpected success after an initial period of obscurity or failure

Example:
The movie was a real sleeper hit, gaining popularity months after its release.
The young athlete was a sleeper in the competition, surprising everyone with his performance.
5.

a type of earring that is worn continuously, especially by children, to keep a piercing open

Example:
She got her ears pierced and wore small gold sleepers for the first few months.
These tiny hoops are perfect as sleepers for new piercings.