Definition

A military officer who ranks just below a lieutenant, often serving in a junior position.

Example

The sublieutenant was eager to prove his skills during the training exercises.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new sublieutenant in our unit?

Yeah, I heard he just graduated from the academy.

He seems pretty eager to prove himself as a sublieutenant.

I think he’ll do great; everyone starts somewhere!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Sublieutenant** → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under) and "lieutenant" (from Old French *lieutenant*, meaning to hold or to place). The word describes a rank that is under a lieutenant, indicating a subordinate position in military hierarchy.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'under' ('sub-') a 'holder' or 'place' ('lieutenant') in the military — that's why a sublieutenant is a rank below a lieutenant.

Visually Confused Words