platoon
UK: pləˈtuːn | US: pləˈtuːn
n. a military unit typically consisting of two or more squads or sections
n. a group of people acting together, especially in sports or work
platoon = plat<flat> + oon<augmentative suffix>
- plat (from French plat, meaning "flat") originally referred to a flat formation or arrangement.
- oon (augmentative suffix, from French -on) implies a larger or collective unit.
Etymology Origin:
The word "platoon" entered English in the 17th century from French peloton, meaning "small ball" or "group," derived from pelote (ball). Over time, it evolved to describe a military unit organized in a compact, cohesive formation, reflecting its root idea of a "flattened" or tightly grouped assembly.
The platoon advanced cautiously through the dense forest.
He was promoted to lead a platoon of 30 soldiers.
The soccer coach divided the players into two platoons for drills.
A platoon of volunteers worked together to clean the park.
The film depicts the camaraderie within a platoon during wartime.