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Legionnaire Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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legionnaire

[ˌlɛdʒɪˈnɛər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

military, history

A legionnaire is a soldier who is a member of a legion, particularly in the context of the French Foreign Legion. These troops are often recruited from foreign nationals to serve in the French military, characterized by rigorous training and discipline.

Synonyms

fighter, military personnel, soldier.

Examples of usage

  • The legionnaire marched proudly in the parade.
  • Many legionnaires have fascinating stories of adventure.
  • He decided to become a legionnaire to see the world.
  • The recruitment office attracts numerous would-be legionnaires.
  • Legionnaires are known for their strong camaraderie.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'legio,' which means to gather or assemble.
  • Ancient Rome organized its military into legions, with a legionnaire being a soldier in these large groups.
  • The famous French Foreign Legion was established in 1831 to allow foreign nationals to serve in the French military.

Military Structure

  • A Roman legion typically consisted of about 5,000 soldiers, all trained for various combat techniques.
  • Legionnaires were often heavily armored, and the name implies rigorous training and discipline required to be part of such a unit.
  • Membership in a legion offered benefits like land grants or pensions to soldiers after their service, promoting loyalty and commitment.

Cultural Significance

  • In literature and film, legionnaires are often depicted as heroic figures, facing great challenges and enemies.
  • The French Foreign Legion has a romanticized image in popular culture, known for accepting recruits from all walks of life, giving them a chance to start anew.
  • The term has influenced modern usages in video games and sports, referring to teams or groups showcasing unity and strength.

Modern Relevance

  • Today, the concept of a legionnaire can relate to various elite military units around the world that embody similar values of bravery and camaraderie.
  • Veterans of the French Foreign Legion maintain a strong sense of community, often celebrating their unique experiences during service.
  • The legacy of previous legionnaires can be seen in the continuing traditions and ceremonial practices maintained by military organizations.

Psychology

  • Serving as a legionnaire fosters strong psychological bonds among soldiers, built on mutual respect and shared experiences in high-stress situations.
  • Studies show that membership in elite military units can enhance an individual’s sense of purpose and identity.
  • The camaraderie experienced by legionnaires can lead to traditionally lower rates of PTSD due to strong support networks among peers.

Origin of 'legionnaire'

The term 'legionnaire' derives from the Latin 'legionarius', which means 'belonging to a legion'. The concept of legions dates back to ancient Rome, where they were the primary fighting units of the Roman army. Over time, the use of the word 'legionnaire' evolved, especially as the French Foreign Legion was established in 1831 to provide a means for foreign nationals to serve in the French military. The legion was designed to be a place for soldiers from all backgrounds, promoting a sense of unity and purpose among its members. The legacy of the legionnaire continues today, symbolizing bravery, commitment, and the spirit of adventure.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,317, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.