sleeper cell
Hidden terrorist group
A sleeper cell is a group of covert agents who remain dormant in a target country or organization until activated for a mission—typically espionage, sabotage, or terrorism.
The members live ordinary lives, blending into their communities while awaiting instructions: Intelligence agencies suspected sleeper cells were operating in major cities.
The term evokes hidden threats that could awaken without warning.
- operativeCovert field agent
- cellBasic unit of life
- dormantInactive but capable
- molesBurrowing insectivore mammals
- secret identityUndisclosed true self
activation · handler · terrorist · clandestine · embedded · under the radar · radicalization · groups · safe house · deep cover · going dark · militant · covert operations · false flag · cadre · infiltration · spook · intelligence agency
- espionagespy, spies, double agent, double agents, spying
- action filmschase scene, car chase, explosion, stunt, shootout
- Spy Thrillersspy, double agent, covert ops, classified, intel
- covert tacticssubterfuge, decoy, feint, diversion, misdirection
- criminal groupsgang, mafia, cartel, mob, syndicate
- factionsfactions, faction, splinter groups, splinter party, blocs
sleep, sleepy, sleeping, slept, sleeper, sleepiness, sleepless, sleepily, sleepover