leather-neck
Definition
- Noun (countable):
- A U.S. Marine: "leather-neck" is a slang term used to refer to a member of the United States Marine Corps. The term originates from the leather stock (a stiff leather collar) that was once part of the Marine uniform, which forced the wearer to keep their head upright.
- Historical context: It specifically denotes a Marine, often used informally or in military slang.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The old leather-neck told stories of his service in the Pacific. (An experienced U.S. Marine recounted his military experiences.)
- A group of leather-necks marched in the parade with crisp uniforms. (A group of U.S. Marines participated in the parade.)
Advanced Usage
"to be a leather-neck": to be a U.S. Marine, often implying toughness or discipline.
- He's a true leather-neck, having served for over twenty years. (He is a dedicated U.S. Marine with long service.)
"leather-neck slang": informal terms or expressions used among Marines.
- The veteran used leather-neck slang that civilians didn't understand. (The Marine used specialized jargon from his service.)
Variants and Related Words
Leatherneck (n, alternative spelling): same meaning, often written as one word.
- The leatherneck saluted the flag. (The U.S. Marine saluted.)
Leather-necked (adj, rare): having a leather neck; figuratively, tough or hardened.
- The leather-necked soldier remained calm under fire. (The hardened soldier stayed composed.)
Synonyms
- Marine: a member of the Marine Corps.
- Devil dog: another slang term for a U.S. Marine (from German "Teufelshunde").
- Jarhead: a colloquial term for a U.S. Marine (often used in popular culture).
Related Idioms
"Old leather-neck": an experienced or retired Marine.
- The old leather-neck taught the new recruits discipline. (The veteran Marine instructed the newcomers.)
"Leather-neck attitude": a tough, no-nonsense demeanor associated with Marines.
- He faced the challenge with a leather-neck attitude, refusing to quit. (He showed the determined mindset of a Marine.)