fifth column

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In fact, because many children didn’t show symptoms of the infection or had only mild, flu-like symptoms, they functioned almost like an undetected fifth column in spreading the virus to adults.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2025

“We’re framed in this idea that somehow we’re a fifth column trying to take the country down,” said James Jones, vice chair of the board of the Islamic Seminary of America.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 18, 2020

I’ve found myself scrolling through her work, pausing every fourth or fifth column to read or reread her guidance on how to navigate the world.

From Washington Post • Jun. 25, 2019

KM: You referred to a movement as a fifth column.

From Salon • Jul. 20, 2017

Henry Reid advised employees to stay on the lookout for spies disguised as Langley Field soldiers and warned of fifth column plants who might coax valuable research from unwitting laboratory employees.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly