First Known Use: 1936
Dictionary
fifth column
noun
Definition of FIFTH COLUMN
: a group of secret sympathizers or supporters of an enemy that engage in espionage or sabotage within defense lines or national borders
— fifth col·um·nism \-ˈkä-ləm-ˌ(n)i-zəm\ noun
— fifth col·um·nist \-(n)ist\ noun
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Origin of FIFTH COLUMN
name applied to rebel sympathizers in Madrid in 1936 when four rebel columns were advancing on the city
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