battalion
UK: bəˈtæliən | US: bəˈtæljən
n. a large military unit consisting of several companies, typically commanded by a lieutenant colonel
n. any large group of people organized for a particular purpose
battalion = battal<fight> + ion<noun suffix>
- battal (from Old French bataillier, meaning "to fight," derived from Latin battuere, "to beat")
- ion (a noun-forming suffix indicating "action or condition," from Latin -io)
Etymology Origin:
The word battalion traces back to the Latin battuere ("to beat"), reflecting its martial roots. Through Old French bataillier ("to fight"), it evolved into battalion in English, originally denoting a body of troops ready for battle. The suffix -ion solidifies its meaning as an organized fighting force. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe any large, organized group.
The battalion marched through the valley at dawn.
A battalion of volunteers cleaned up the park after the storm.
The general deployed two battalions to secure the border.
The protest was met by a battalion of police officers.
She led a battalion of researchers in the groundbreaking study.