adjective / noun
subaltern
suh-BAWL-tern/səˈbɔːltərn/
Occupying a subordinate position.
The subaltern officer salutes an officer of higher rank.
Etymology
The components combine the ideas of being under and following another. The resulting adjective meant subordinate in position, and its noun use names someone of inferior rank.
In context
A subaltern rallied us and gave the order to fix bayonets.
More examples
- The captain assigns two subalterns to supervise the patrol.
- Workers in subaltern positions have little say in company decisions.
- As a subaltern, she carries out policies set by others.
Forms
subaltern · subalterns
Similar words
- subordinate
- Subordinate more broadly describes someone under another person's authority or control.
- junior
- Junior usually indicates less seniority, especially within a profession.