platoon
noun
[ pləˈtuːn ]
• a subdivision of a company of soldiers, usually forming a tactical unit that is commanded by a subaltern or lieutenant and divided into three sections.
• "the platoon commander"
Similar:
unit,
patrol,
troop,
squad,
team,
squadron,
company,
group,
corps,
division,
outfit,
detachment,
contingent,
platoon
verb
• (in South Africa) apply the platoon system to (a school).
• "it has been found necessary to platoon 14 schools"
• use the strategy of alternating (a pair of players or one player with another) in a specified field position in successive games.
• "at catcher we platooned Petralli and Stanley"
Origin:
mid 17th century: from French peloton ‘platoon’, literally ‘small ball’, diminutive of pelote .
