Definition

A person who is part of a military reserve force and can be called to active duty when needed.

Example

He is a reservist who trains regularly in case he is needed for service.

Conversation

Did you hear about Mark? He's become a reservist recently.

Really? That's interesting! What made him decide to join?

He said he wanted to serve his country while still keeping his job.

That makes sense. It’s great that he can be a reservist and still have a normal life.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reservist → It is formed from "reserve" (from Latin *reservare*, meaning to keep back or hold) and "-ist" (meaning a person who practices or is concerned with). A reservist is a person who is kept back for military service when needed.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'kept back' ('reserve') for military duty — that's what a reservist is.

Visually Confused Words