redcoat

/'red'kout/

Thân thiện

A British redcoat stands guard at a historic fort.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A British soldier, especially one serving during the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783): The term "redcoat" refers specifically to a soldier of the British army, so-called because of the distinctive red uniform coat that was standard issue during that historical period.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The colonists feared the arrival of the redcoats.
  • Paintings of the era often depict redcoats in formation.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Reference: The term is used almost exclusively in a historical context, particularly when discussing the 18th and early 19th centuries. It carries connotations of the British military authority faced by American colonists.
  • The rebellion was a direct response to the policies enforced by the redcoats.

Variants and Related Words

• Lobsterback (n): A derogatory slang term used by American colonists for a British soldier, also referring to the red coat.
  • The protesters shouted insults, calling the soldiers "lobsterbacks".

Synonyms

• British soldier: A neutral, descriptive term for a soldier serving in the British army.
• Regular: A term used by American colonists to refer to the professional British soldiers.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "redcoat" is specific and historical. It is not used to describe modern British soldiers. Its use evokes a particular image and set of historical events, primarily the American Revolution.

Học thuật

Noun

1. British soldier; so-called because of his red coat (especially during the American Revolution)

Từ đồng nghĩa

• lobsterback