Definition

Proper noun A Russian military commander and field marshal, most famous for leading the Imperial Russian Army during the French invasion of Russia in 1812, which culminated in the defeat of Napoleon's forces.

Usage

This word is used as a proper noun to refer specifically to the historical figure, Mikhail Illarionovich Golenishchev-Kutuzov. It is primarily used in historical, military, and biographical contexts.

Examples

• The Russian strategy at the Battle of Borodino was masterminded by Kutuzov.
• Kutuzov is celebrated as a national hero in Russia for his defense against Napoleon.
• The biography details the life and campaigns of Field Marshal Kutuzov.

Advanced Usage

• "Kutuzov's strategy": Refers to the specific military tactics of strategic retreat and attrition famously employed against Napoleon's Grande Armée.
  • Historians often study Kutuzov's strategy as a classic example of defeating a superior invading force.
• "A Kutuzov-like figure": Used metaphorically to describe a leader who uses patience, deep knowledge of their homeland, and strategic withdrawal to overcome a seemingly stronger opponent.
  • The general was praised as a Kutuzov-like figure for his handling of the prolonged conflict.

Variants and Related Words

• Prince Kutuzov of Smolensk: His full honorary title.
• Kutuzov (Order): The Order of Kutuzov, a Soviet and later Russian military award named in his honor.

Synonyms

• Mikhail Kutuzov
• Field Marshal Kutuzov
• The Saviour of Russia (an epithet)

Related Idioms or Phrases

• To pull a Kutuzov: An informal and rare phrase implying a strategic retreat or a decision to sacrifice territory to gain a long-term advantage, inspired by his tactics.
  • Facing the market downturn, the CEO decided to pull a Kutuzov, closing several stores to preserve the company's core assets.

Noun

1. Russian field marshal who commanded the Russian opposition to Napoleon (1745-1813)