Brevet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Military Tradition

• Brevet ranks allow officers to be promoted temporarily without receiving the full pay associated with a higher rank.
• These ranks are often awarded for specific acts of bravery or exceptional service during combat.
• Notable figures, such as Ulysses S. Grant, were granted brevet promotions during the American Civil War for their exemplary leadership.

Pop Culture

• The concept of brevet ranks has appeared in films and books about military life, often highlighting characters who brave great dangers.
• In video games like 'Call of Duty', characters earn brevet-like promotions for completing challenging missions with skill and courage.
• Television series such as 'Band of Brothers' portray the significance of a brevet as a validation of sacrifice made by soldiers.

International Use

• Different countries have their own systems of brevet ranks, often with unique criteria and customs surrounding their awards.
• In countries like France, the brevet system extends beyond military use to include the Brevet des Collèges, an educational certification for students.
• Some nations have also used brevet ranks to incentivize and recognize non-commissioned officers, broadening the scope of its application.

Recognition and Commemoration

• In many military organizations, brevet ranks are seen as a prestigious recognition that often comes with its own medals or insignia.
• The tradition of awarding brevet ranks is meant to enhance morale, showing soldiers that their contributions are valued.
• Some militaries hold ceremonies specifically to honor those who have received brevet promotions, celebrating their bravery.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'brevet' comes from the French term 'breveté', which means 'protected' or 'patented', reflecting something special.
• In its original French context, 'brevet' referred to letters of patent, showing formal approval or recognition of an achievement.
• It was first adopted in English military use in the 18th century, emphasizing its importance in recognizing individual merit.

The word 'brevet' originates from the French term 'brevet', which means 'official letter' or 'certificate'. It is derived from the Latin word 'breviatum', meaning 'shortened', which reflects the brevity often associated with such documents. In military usage, the brevet system was prominent in the 18th and 19th centuries, especially in European armies, where it was used to recognize officers for service and merit without a corresponding promotion in rank. The concept emphasized both honor and recognition while allowing for a flexible command structure within military units. Over time, the term has expanded beyond the military to other fields, including cycling and various professional certifications, where a brevet indicates a level of achievement or qualification.

Positioned at #24,783, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

• ...
• 24780 cockroach
• 24781 sadder
• 24782 revetment
• 24783 brevet
• 24784 pejorative
• 24785 adulterous
• 24786 omniscience
• ...