Noncom Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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noncom

[ˈnɒnˌkɒm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Not participating in or conforming to the customs, traditions, or practices of a society or group.

Synonyms

nonconformist, rebellious, unconventional.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
noncom

Use in the context of military or formal hierarchical structures to refer to a noncommissioned officer.

  • The noncom gave orders to the privates during the training drill.
  • As a noncom, he was responsible for overseeing the enlisted soldiers.

Examples of usage

  • He was seen as a noncomformist in his conservative community.
  • Her noncom behavior often made her stand out from the crowd.
Context #2 | Noun

military

A noncommissioned officer, especially in the US Army.

Synonyms

NCO, corporal, sergeant.

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Word Description / Examples
noncom

Similar to the first entry, used informally to refer to noncommissioned officers.

  • The noncom briefed the squad before the exercise.
  • He has been a noncom for five years now.
sergeant

A rank in the military above corporal and below staff sergeant; commonly used when referring to the specific duties and responsibilities associated with the position. Can also be used outside the military in a police context.

  • The sergeant gave clear instructions to the new recruits.
  • Sergeant Johnson is known for his strict discipline.
corporal

A rank in the military that is just above private first class and just below sergeant; most commonly used when referring specifically to the position within military structure.

  • He was promoted to corporal after completing the training.
  • The corporal led the team during the exercise.
NCO

Abbreviation for noncommissioned officer; often used in formal documents or conversations related to military structure and hierarchy.

  • The NCO report is due by the end of the week.
  • She has been an excellent NCO throughout her service.

Examples of usage

  • He started his military career as a noncom and worked his way up through the ranks.
  • The noncoms were responsible for training the new recruits.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Military Context

  • In the military, a noncom is often a non-commissioned officer, responsible for leading soldiers without a formal commission.
  • Military noncoms typically have significant influence over training and discipline within their units.
  • The role of noncoms dates back to historical warfare, where non-commissioned leaders were crucial for battle strategies.

Legal Implications

  • In legal contexts, noncompliance can lead to penalties or enforcement actions from authorities.
  • The concept of noncompliance is essential in understanding regulations in various fields, including healthcare and environmental law.
  • Documenting instances of noncom is crucial for organizations to maintain accountability and address violations.

Pop Culture

  • The idea of a noncom is often depicted in movies and TV shows that showcase military life and bureaucracy.
  • Noncoms in film often represent the struggle between authority and individual freedom.
  • Characters designated as noncoms could symbolize rebellion against established norms.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that noncompliance can stem from a variety of motivations, including distrust of authority or disagreements with the rules.
  • Psychologically, the tendency to be a noncom may be linked to personality traits such as openness or rebellion.
  • Understanding noncom behavior can help organizations design better compliance programs that consider human factors.

Origin of 'noncom'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'noncom' comes from combining 'non' meaning not, and 'compliance' referring to following rules.
  • It emerged in the mid-20th century within military and organizational contexts.
  • The prefix 'non-' is derived from Latin, meaning not or the opposite of.

The word 'noncom' originated as a slang term in the military, specifically in the US Army, to refer to noncommissioned officers. It later evolved to also be used in a broader context to describe someone who does not conform to societal norms. The term 'noncom' is a blend of 'non' (meaning not) and 'com' (short for 'commissioned officer').