# brigadier

/ˌbɹɪɡəˈdɪɹ/ (US) · /bɹˌɪɡɐdˈiə/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/brigadier
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a high-ranking officer in the army who is in charge of a large group of soldiers called a brigade.

For teachers: a senior military rank above colonel and below major general, typically commanding a brigade. In some forces, it is considered the lowest general officer rank, while in others it is the highest field officer rank.

## Examples

- The brigadier gave the order to move the troops.
- After twenty years of service, she was promoted to brigadier and took command of the regional task force.
- The brigadier coordinated the multi-national relief effort, ensuring that each battalion maintained clear lines of communication despite the challenging terrain and language barriers.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a title before a surname (e.g., Brigadier Smith).

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.