brigade
UK: brɪˈɡeɪd | US: brɪˈɡeɪd
n. a military unit consisting of a group of regiments or battalions
n. a group of people organized for a specific purpose (e.g., a fire brigade)
vt. to organize into a brigade
The word "brigade" entered English in the 17th century from French, where it originally referred to a military unit. Its Italian root, "brigata," reflects the idea of a band or troop, often with a combative connotation. Over time, the term broadened to include any organized group, whether military or civilian (e.g., "fire brigade"). The suffix "-ade" reinforces the collective nature of the unit.
The army deployed a brigade to secure the border.
She joined the local volunteer brigade to help with disaster relief.
The general commanded a brigade of 3,000 soldiers.
The fire brigade arrived within minutes of the emergency call.
Protesters formed a brigade to clean up the polluted beach.