Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

fifth-columnist

noun

/’fɪfθ kəˈlʌmnɪst/

Definition

A person who secretly supports an enemy of their own country or group, often working to undermine its efforts from within.

Examples

During the war, the government was wary of fifth-columnists who might sabotage their efforts.
He was accused of being a fifth-columnist for providing information to the enemy.

Meaning

The term ‘fifth-columnist’ refers to someone who betrays their own group, often collaborating with adversaries, especially during times of conflict or war.