Definition

A group of soldiers trained to jump from airplanes and fight on the ground.

Example

The paratroop unit was deployed to assist in the rescue operation.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new paratroop unit they formed?

Yeah, I heard they had some intense training sessions.

I can only imagine how tough it must be to jump out of planes like that.

Definitely! Those paratroop soldiers are some of the bravest.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Paratroop → It is formed from "para-" (meaning alongside or beyond) and "troop" (from Old French *troupe*, meaning a group of soldiers). The word refers to soldiers who are dropped from aircraft to land alongside or beyond enemy lines.

Memory Tip

Think of soldiers landing 'alongside' ('para-') in a 'group' ('troop') — that's what paratroop means.

Visually Confused Words