Definition

Noun: 1. A state of being fully equipped and prepared for marching, especially for military personnel: This refers to the complete set of equipment, gear, and uniform worn or carried by soldiers when they are ready to march or are on the march. 2. (Figuratively) Instructions or a command to proceed; a dismissal: This informal, idiomatic meaning refers to being given directions to begin a task or, more commonly, being told to leave or being dismissed from a position.

Usage Examples

• Literal Military Sense:
  • The platoon assembled in full marching order, carrying packs, weapons, and rations.
  • The general inspected the troops to ensure they were in proper marching order before the long journey.
• Figurative/Idiomatic Sense:
  • After the project failed, the entire team was given its marching orders.
  • The coach gave the player his marching orders after he broke team rules.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase "to get one's marching orders" or "to be given one's marching orders" is a common idiom meaning to be formally dismissed or fired from a job or position.
  • The underperforming executive finally got her marching orders from the board.
• "In full marching order" is a standard phrase to describe the complete and formal military readiness for a march.

Variants and Related Words

• Marching orders (plural noun): This is the more common form when using the idiomatic, figurative sense meaning "dismissal."
• Equipage (noun): The equipment or furnishings for a particular purpose, often for a military force. (This is a more formal synonym for the literal sense of gear and equipment).

Synonyms

• Literal: Full kit, battle gear, field equipment.
• Figurative (for dismissal): Notice, dismissal, pink slip, the sack, one's walking papers.

Related Idioms

• To get the boot: To be fired or dismissed.
• To be shown the door: To be asked or forced to leave.

Noun

1. equipage for marching
   • the company was dressed in full marching order