Meaning & Definition of word "Corporal"

Corporal

/ˈkɔːpərəl/

1. A non-commissioned officer in the military, ranking above a private and below a sergeant.
- Example: The corporal led his team through the challenging mission.
2. A corporal’s rank insignia.
- Example: She wore her corporal stripes proudly on her uniform.

1. Relating to the body; physical.
- Example: The soldier sustained a corporal injury during the training exercise.
2. Of or relating to the rank of corporal in the military.
- Example: He was promoted to corporal after demonstrating excellent leadership skills.

Middle English: from Old French 'corporal', from Latin 'corporalis' meaning 'of the body', from 'corpus' meaning 'body'.

corporal punishment:

Physical punishment inflicted on the body, often in a disciplinary context.

to be reduced to corporal:

A phrase used when someone is demoted to a lower rank, especially in a military context.

acting corporal:

An individual temporarily fulfilling the duties of a corporal without the formal rank.

sergeant:

A higher rank than corporal in many military organizations, often tasked with more leadership responsibilities.

lieutenant:

A rank in the military or police force above sergeant and below captain.

officer:

A person in a position of authority, typically in the military or police.

Meaning: A term used humorously or sarcastically to describe someone in a low-ranking position or someone with limited authority.

Example Sentence: He’s just a corporal around here, don’t expect him to change anything.

Meaning: Used to describe someone who is very strict or rigid, particularly in their enforcement of rules.

Example Sentence: That teacher is such a corporal when it comes to classroom discipline!