battalion
n. · v.-
1 military unit (n.) C1 Advanced Technical Sciencea large unit of an army, usually made up of several smaller groups called companies.
a military unit consisting of a headquarters and two or more companies, often forming part of a brigade or regiment.
ExampleThe battalion marched for three days before reaching the edge of the forest.
ExampleThe infantry battalion was deployed to the border to reinforce existing positions and provide logistical support for the upcoming exercises.
UsageUsually functions as a countable noun; in British English, it may take a plural verb.
-
2 a large number (n.) C2 Proficiency Literarya very large number of people or things, especially when they are organised.
a large body of persons or things organised for a specific purpose; often used for emphasis.
ExampleA battalion of reporters waited outside the courthouse for the verdict.
ExampleThe CEO was met by a battalion of lawyers, all prepared to defend the company against the recent allegations of fraud.
Teacher's tipThis sense is often used with 'of' to describe a daunting or impressive group of people, like lawyers or critics.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
-
3 to organise into units (v.) C2 Proficiency Formal Technicalto organise a large group of people into smaller, military-style units.
to form or organise into battalions.
ExampleThe volunteers were battalionned to make the rescue effort more efficient.
ExampleThe commander ordered the irregular forces to be battalionned under professional officers to ensure better discipline during the campaign.
From Middle French battaillon (modern French bataillon).