echelon

Definition

A stepped formation where units are arranged diagonally, like a staircase made of soldiers or vehicles. Also refers to levels of command, because the military loves using the same word for completely different things.

Example Usage

The armor battalion advanced in echelon right formation, each company offset from the one ahead.

Origin

From French 'échelon' meaning 'rung of a ladder,' borrowed into military vocabulary in the 18th century

Fun Fact

The term 'echelon' is also famous from the ECHELON surveillance program, proving that military jargon can be recycled for spy stuff too.

Source: Military formation and command structure terminology

Related Terms

Beginner

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🎖️ Military / Defense

Intermediate

Bivouac

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Advanced

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🎖️ Military / Defense

Advanced

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🎖️ Military / Defense

Advanced

dope

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🎖️ Military / Defense

Intermediate

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🎖️ Military / Defense

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Intermediate

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