rhizoverbBeta
DictionarysquadronOrganized unit
noun

squadron

SKWAH-drun/ˈskwɑːdrən/

An organized group operating as a unit, especially in the armed forces.

The squadron flies in formation.

Four military aircraft flying together in organized formation, no combat or weapons firing, recognizable coordinated unit.
Etymology
squadrItalianbattalion; square
+onItalianaugmentative

An enlarged form of squadra, “battalion” or literally “square,” originally named soldiers drawn up in a square. The formation term broadened into a military detachment, including units of cavalry, ships, and aircraft.

In context

Kings and Generals13:32
A squadron of six ships, led by Frobisher’s Triumph, tried to outflank the Armada once again from the north.
Spanish Armada: How England Defended Itself - Early Modern History

More examples

  • Several aircraft from the squadron returned together.
  • She commanded a naval squadron.
  • The cavalry squadron assembled before dawn.

Forms

squadron · squadrons

Similar words

unit
The broad organized group.
platoon
A different military grouping, usually smaller and associated with ground troops.