squadron
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a group of military planes and the people who fly and maintain them.
n.the primary operational unit in an air force, typically consisting of two or more flights of aircraft and their associated personnel.
Simple“The fighter squadron was ordered to take off immediately when the alarm sounded.”
In context“After completing their training, the pilots were assigned to an operational squadron based in the northern territories for coastal patrol duties.”
- 02 C1 Advanced
n.a small group of warships sent to do a specific job.
n.a detachment of warships or auxiliary vessels assigned to a particular task or station under a single command.
Simple“A squadron of destroyers moved into the harbour to protect the cargo ships.”
In context“The admiral dispatched a small squadron to monitor the strait, ensuring that no unauthorised vessels could bypass the blockade undetected.”
Synonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
n.a unit of soldiers in the army, especially those using horses or tanks.
n.a principal division of a cavalry or armoured regiment, usually commanded by a major or captain.
Simple“The tank squadron moved across the field in a tight formation.”
In context“Historically, a cavalry squadron comprised several troops, serving as the basic tactical element for battlefield manoeuvres.”
- 04 C2 Proficiency
v.to divide a large group of people or vehicles into smaller squadrons.
v.to organise or divide troops, vessels, or aircraft into squadrons for tactical purposes.
Simple“The commander decided to squadron the new recruits for better training.”
In context“The fleet was squadroned according to vessel speed and armament to ensure maximum efficiency during the long-range transit.”
“The military aerobatics flight demonstration team adopted the Snowbirds moniker in 1972 after a national competition among school children to name the squadron.”
“To be clear, the pilots and the extended crew of the Moose Jaw, Sask.-based 431 Air Demonstration Squadron isn’t going anywhere.”
From Italian squadrone. See squad.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.