army-beef

A soldier opens a can of army-beef for his meal.

Definition

• Noun: Army-beef refers to canned meat, specifically beef, that is supplied as rations for military personnel.

Usage Examples

• (Canned beef provided as military rations.)
• (The flavor of canned military beef.)

Advanced Usage

• "Army-beef" is a historical term, most commonly associated with 19th and early 20th century military provisioning, particularly during the American Civil War and World War I. It may carry connotations of poor quality or monotony.
  • The veterans complained about the tough, salty army-beef they were issued. (The canned beef was criticized for its texture and seasoning.)

Variants and Related Words

• Bully beef (n): A similar term for canned corned beef, often used as military rations.

  • The troops were issued bully beef as a staple of their field rations. (Canned corned beef for soldiers.)

• Canned meat (n): General term for preserved meat in tins.

  • Canned meat was a vital resource during wartime. (Preserved meat in sealed containers.)

Synonyms

• Canned beef: Beef that has been preserved in a sealed can.
• Military rations: Food supplies specifically prepared for armed forces.

Related Idioms

• "Tough as army-beef": An idiom meaning something is extremely difficult or hard to chew, often used metaphorically.
  • This steak is tough as army-beef; I can barely cut it. (The meat is very hard to eat.)