Brigade

Pronunciation

• Rhymes: -eɪd

Origin

Borrowing from fr {{2}} brigade

Full definition of brigade

Noun

1. A group of people organized for a common purpose.a work brigade; a fire brigade
2. (military) Military unit composed of several regiments (or battalions) and including soldiers from different arms of service.
3. (derogatory) A group of people who share views or beliefs.More sympathy for career criminals from the bleeding-heart brigade!

Usage notes

In many countries, a military brigade was traditionally formed from two or more regiments. According to the country and time period, brigade may also designate a much smaller groups of soldiers. A modern US brigade usually consists of three battalions and forms part of a division.

Related terms

• brigade system
• brigadier
• brigadier general

Verb

1. To form troops into a brigade

Anagrams

• abridge