Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/brɪˈɡeɪd/

Definitions

• Noun: A military unit typically consisting of several battalions or regiments, commanded by a brigadier general.
• Noun: A group of people or things organized for a particular purpose or activity, often with a shared goal.
• Noun: In some contexts, used to describe a group of volunteers or activists working toward a common cause.

Usage Examples

• "The brigade marched through the town during the parade."
• "A brigade of firefighters worked tirelessly to control the blaze."
• "He led the youth brigade in their community service activities."

Etymology

The term "brigade" is derived from the French word "brigade," meaning "a group or body of people organized for a specific task." It originated in the early 17th century from the Italian word "brigata," which referred to a company or group. Over time, the word became associated with military units in European armies and was adopted widely in English and other languages.

Synonyms

• Unit
• Division
• Corps
• Team
• Squad
• Force

Antonyms

• Individual
• Solo
• Isolated
• Lonely

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, "brigade" tends to be pronounced more formally, with emphasis on both syllables.
• In American English, the pronunciation is usually more relaxed, with a slight reduction in the first syllable.

Historical Usage

The word "brigade" dates back to the early 17th century, originating from the French word "brigade," meaning a group or company. It became associated with military units in the late 1600s when armies began to organize themselves into brigades. Over time, the term evolved to describe various organized groups, both military and non-military, and has since spread globally.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, "brigade" is not just used in military contexts but also in reference to volunteer groups, firefighters, and even community service organizations. The term conveys a sense of collective action and teamwork. In some contexts, a "brigade" is viewed as a prestigious group dedicated to a noble cause, especially when used in reference to activists or humanitarian efforts.

More Information

A brigade is an important organizational unit in the military, composed of several battalions or regiments and tasked with a variety of responsibilities, ranging from strategic leadership to direct combat operations. The rank of Brigadier General, who commands a brigade, is a key leadership role in many armed forces around the world. The term has expanded beyond the military to include any organized group working together toward a common goal, whether in public service, industry, or activism.