Marshal
Noun
Definition: A military officer of the highest rank, typically in the army or air force.
Definition: A high-ranking official in some countries, such as a marquis, count, or earl.
Synonyms: Commander, General
Antonyms: Soldier, Private
- The marshal led the troops into battle.
- The parade was led by a marshal on horseback.
- Think of a marshal as someone who leads and directs others in a military or official capacity.
- Marshal rhymes with general, another high-ranking military officer.
Verb
Definition: To arrange or organize something, often with the aim of achieving a particular goal.
Definition: To lead or direct a group of people or resources.
Synonyms: Organize, Coordinate, Direct
Antonyms: Disorganize, Scatter
- She helped marshal the volunteers for the event.
- The coach marshaled the team's resources to win the championship.
- Think of marshaling resources as gathering and aligning them in a strategic manner.
- Imagine a marshal directing a group of people in a synchronized manner.
Etymology:
Middle English 'mareschal', from Old French 'mareschal' (from Frankish 'marhskalk', meaning "horse servant") and ultimately from Germanic roots.
Historical Usage:The term "marshal" originally referred to a trusted servant or officer in charge of horses in medieval times. Over the centuries, its meaning expanded to include military and official positions of authority.
Related Idioms:
"Marshal one's forces"
Explanation:To gather and organize all available resources or people in preparation for a particular task or battle.
Misconceptions:
Confusing the noun form (military or official officer) with the verb form (to arrange or organize).
Explanation:The word "marshal" can have distinct meanings and uses as a noun and a verb, so it's important to understand the context in which it is used.