Definition

A military officer who ranks just below a major general and is responsible for commanding a brigade.

Example

The brigadier led his troops into battle with great courage.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new brigadier in town?

Yeah, I read he used to serve in the British army.

I wonder what his command style will be like as a brigadier.

I hope he brings some fresh ideas to the unit!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Brigadier → It is formed from "brigade" (from French *brigade*, meaning a body of troops) and the suffix "-ier" (meaning one who). The word "brigadier" refers to one who commands a brigade, a military unit.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'brigade' as a group of troops and '-ier' meaning a person in charge — a brigadier is someone who commands a group of soldiers.

Visually Confused Words