Fifth column

Main Entry: fifth column
Function: noun
Etymology: name applied to rebel sympathizers in Madrid in 1936 when four rebel columns were advancing on the city
Date: 1936
: 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 /-'k@-l&m-"(n)i-z&m/ noun
- fifth col.um.nist /-(n)ist/ noun

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