# platoon

/pɫəˈtun/ (US) · /plɐtˈuːn/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/platoon
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. military unit

noun · CEFR B2

a small group of about thirty to forty soldiers, usually led by a lieutenant.

For teachers: a tactical military unit consisting of two or more squads or sections, typically commanded by a lieutenant and forming part of a company.

- The lieutenant ordered his platoon to move quietly through the forest at night.
- After weeks of intensive training, the platoon was deployed to the border to assist with peacekeeping operations and local security.

### 2. vehicle convoy

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a group of vehicles, often self-driving, that travel very close together in a line.

For teachers: a group of vehicles, particularly autonomous trucks, travelling in a close-order convoy to improve fuel efficiency and traffic flow.

- The company is testing a platoon of self-driving trucks on the highway.
- By using wireless communication to maintain a constant distance, the platoon of heavy-duty vehicles significantly reduced aerodynamic drag during the long-haul journey.

### 3. to alternate players

verb · CEFR C2 · American English · Informal

to share a position on a sports team with another player, usually based on the opponent.

For teachers: to alternate two or more players in the same position to exploit specific tactical advantages, such as handedness in baseball.

- The coach decided to platoon the two catchers depending on who was pitching.
- The manager opted to platoon his outfielders throughout the season, starting the left-handed hitter only when facing right-handed pitchers.

### 4. to drive in a convoy

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

to travel in a tight line of vehicles that communicate with each other.

For teachers: to operate vehicles in a coordinated convoy using electronic sensors and communication to maintain close proximity.

- The trucks began to platoon as soon as they reached the open motorway.
- Engineers are investigating how effectively autonomous delivery vans can platoon in urban environments without disrupting the flow of regular traffic.

## Examples

- The platoon marched back to the base.
- After weeks of training together, the platoon developed a strong sense of loyalty and coordination.
- The commander divided the company into three separate platoons to cover more ground during the reconnaissance mission, ensuring each unit maintained radio contact.

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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.