Definition of: sleeper

(slē′pər) noun
1. One who sleeps; figuratively, a dead person.
2. A railroad sleeping–car.
3. A hibernating animal.
4. In football, a member of the backfield or an end stationed far out at either side before the ball is put in motion.
5. A heavy beam resting on or in the ground, as a support for a roadway, rails, etc.; a like support of iron or stone; also, a timber on or near the ground for the lower joists of a building.
6. A deadman.
7. U.S. Colloq. A play, motion picture, or book which achieves unexpected and striking success.