mercenary

Definition

A professional soldier who fights for whoever signs the biggest check, with no particular loyalty to flags, causes, or patriotic speeches. These hired guns are motivated by cold, hard cash rather than national pride or ideological commitment. Think of them as military freelancers, except with significantly higher stakes than your average gig economy worker.

Example Usage

The government hired mercenaries to supplement their overstretched military forces, paying premium rates for experienced combat veterans.

Source: Military terminology

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Intermediate

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