squadron

noun

squad·​ron ˈskwä-drən How to pronounce squadron (audio)
1
: a unit of military organization: such as
a
: a cavalry unit higher than a troop and lower than a regiment
b
: a naval unit consisting of two or more divisions and sometimes additional vessels
c(1)
: a unit of the U.S. Air Force higher than a flight and lower than a group
(2)
: a military flight formation
2
: a large group of people or things
a squadron of limos

Examples of squadron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Throughout his career -- from commanding helicopter squadrons to leading Carrier Strike Group One and standing up the International Maritime Security Construct -- Admiral Holsey has demonstrated unwavering commitment to mission, people, and nation. Anne Flaherty, ABC News, 16 Oct. 2025 An Air Control squadron and Air National Guard squadron are also housed at the base. Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 11 Oct. 2025 The United States has expanded its military presence in Northeast Asia by establishing an MQ-9 drone squadron in South Korea on Monday to deter North Korea's aggression. Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Sep. 2025 Either way, the Royal Canadian Air Force will dispatch an aerobatics squadron, the Snowbirds, for the air show. Grant Stringer, Mercury News, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for squadron

Word History

Etymology

Italian squadrone, augmentative of squadra squad, from Old Italian

First Known Use

1562, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of squadron was in 1562

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Squadron.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/squadron. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

squadron

noun
squad·​ron ˈskwäd-rən How to pronounce squadron (audio)
: any of several units of military organization
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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