battalion

bat·tal·ion

noun \bə-ˈtal-yən\

Definition of BATTALION

1

: a considerable body of troops organized to act together : army

2

: a military unit composed of a headquarters and two or more companies, batteries, or similar units

3

: a large group

Examples of BATTALION

1. a battalion of angry protesters
2. <the nation's battalions were forced to fight on two fronts simultaneously>

Origin of BATTALION

Middle French bataillon, from Old Italian battaglione, augmentative of battaglia company of soldiers, battle, from Late Latin battalia combat — more at battle

First Known Use: 1579

Related to BATTALION

Synonyms: array, army, host, legion

Related Words: militia, national guard, standing army; infantry, ranks, regulars, soldiers, troopers, troops

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Rhymes with BATTALION

Italian, medallion, rapscallion