Definition

1. Noun:
   • A crew member on a bomber aircraft: A "bombardier" is the crew member responsible for operating the bombsight and releasing the aircraft's bombs accurately onto a target.
   • A non-commissioned officer in artillery: In the British and some other armies, a "bombardier" is a rank for a non-commissioned officer in an artillery regiment, equivalent to a corporal.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • During World War II, the bombardier had a critical role in ensuring bombs hit their intended targets.
  • He was promoted to the rank of bombardier after three years of service in the Royal Artillery.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The role of the bombardier was most prominent during the era of dedicated bomber aircraft in the mid-20th century. In modern air forces, the function is often integrated into other crew positions or handled by advanced targeting systems.
• Rank Structure: In military contexts, the specific duties and seniority of a bombardier can vary between different national armies and historical periods.

Variants and Related Words

• Bombard (verb): To attack a place with bombs or heavy artillery fire.
  • The planes were ordered to bombard the enemy positions.
• Bombardment (noun): A continuous attack with bombs or artillery.
  • The city endured a heavy bombardment for several days.

Synonyms

• Bomber crewman: A general term for a member of a bomber aircraft's crew.
• Bomb aimer: A term specifically for the crew member who aims and releases bombs (largely synonymous with the first definition).

Related Phrases

• Lead bombardier: The bombardier in the lead aircraft of a formation, who signals for the other bombers to release their payloads.
  • As the lead bombardier, his accuracy was crucial for the entire squadron's mission.

Noun

1. the member of a bomber crew responsible for using the bombsight and releasing the bombs on the target
2. a noncommissioned officer in the British artillery