Materiel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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materiel

[mษ™หˆtษชr.i.ษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

military usage

Materiel refers to the equipment and supplies used by armed forces in military operations. It includes vehicles, weapons, munitions, and other logistical supports necessary for combat readiness.

Synonyms

equipment, logistics, supplies.

Examples of usage

  • The army received a large shipment of materiel for the upcoming exercise.
  • Proper management of materiel is crucial during wartime.
  • Logistics teams are responsible for distributing materiel to the front lines.
Context #2 | Noun

general usage

In a broader sense, materiel can refer to materials or items necessary for any operation, including non-military contexts. It encompasses all physical goods required to execute a specific task.

Synonyms

materials, provisions, supplies.

Examples of usage

  • The project manager ordered the necessary materiel for the construction site.
  • We need to gather all the materiel before starting the art project.
  • The workshop provided the necessary materiel for the crafts.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Military Use

  • In military language, materiel refers specifically to equipment and supplies necessary for forces to operate effectively.
  • Well-planned logistics emphasizes the importance of materiel in successful military operations.
  • Materiel encompasses everything from weapons to vehicles and medical supplies.

Industry and Economy

  • In business, materiel can refer to the raw materials and components used in manufacturing products.
  • The effective management of materiel can directly influence production efficiency and cost savings.
  • Supply chain specialists focus heavily on ensuring sufficient materiel is available to meet production demands.

Pop Culture

  • The term can occasionally appear in war films, highlighting the importance of logistics and supplies during battles.
  • Some video games depict players managing materiel to equip characters or units, showcasing strategic planning.
  • In literature, the concept often symbolizes the greater needs behind conflict, showcasing the hidden struggles of provision.

Origin of 'materiel'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the French word 'matรฉriel,' which means physical things or materials.
  • It has been used in English since the late 19th century, primarily in military contexts.
  • The word originally relates to the concept of material versus immaterial, emphasizing physical goods.

The term 'materiel' is derived from the French word of the same spelling, which translates to 'material' in English. The usage in a military context became more prevalent during the 19th century, distinguishing equipment and supplies vital for military operations from general materials. The term emphasizes the importance of logistics and support systems in warfare and has since been adopted in various fields beyond the military, highlighting the necessity of having the right resources to accomplish specific goals. Materiel reflects a broader concept of materials needed for any organized activity, indicating its versatility and critical role in operational success.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,359, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.