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Cpl

Cpl

5 6.1
Short form for corporal, a low-ranking soldier who leads a small group
  • noun
  • Jargon
translation icon : Cpl
  • Cpl Johnson received an award for his bravery during the mission.

Examples

  • An Army Musician's Life: I asked CPL Spangler about the challenges of integrating the life of a soldier with that of a musician.

    Academic text (2015)
  • The ability to move around, travel, and experience performing in new places is one of CPL Spangler's main reasons for being in the Army Band.

    Academic text (2015)
  • From the time of the audition to the beginning of Basic Combat Training, approximately fifteen months had passed for CPL Spangler.

    Academic text (2015)
  • CPL Spangler found it quite challenging at times despite having a drum corps background.

    Academic text (2015)
  • The sad thing is that Cpl Mankin was preaching to the choir.

    Blog text (27)
  • In the military, a Cpl often takes on leadership responsibilities among the soldiers.

  • The Cpl briefed his unit before they headed out on the training exercise.

Synonyms

corporal
vsCpl
  • Specialized
450 4.3

A low-ranking soldier who leads a small group

is the short abbreviated form used in lists or labels

How Senior

lieutenant
  • Specialized
614 5.8
sergeant
422 3.9
Cpl
  • Jargon
5 6.1
private
76 3.7

Surface Forms

Cpl singular
Cpls plural

Etymology

Cpl stands for corporal, a low-ranking military officer. The name corporal comes from an old word meaning 'head' (the same idea in captain) because a corporal leads a small group of soldiers, so Cpl reminds you of a junior leader in the unit.