supernumerarii

Supernumerarii, also known as supernumerary soldiers, were auxiliary troops in the Roman army. They were not part of the regular cohort or legion, but rather served as additional support or reinforcement. Supernumerarii were typically recruited from the local population or from other regions, and they were often used to fill gaps in the army's manpower or to provide specific skills that the regular troops lacked.

The term "supernumerarii" literally means "above the number," reflecting their status as extra troops. They were not as highly trained or equipped as the regular soldiers, but they played a crucial role in the Roman army's operations. Supernumerarii could be used for various tasks, such as building fortifications, providing medical support, or even serving as scouts or messengers.

In some cases, supernumerarii were also used to supplement the ranks of the regular troops during times of crisis or war. However, their role was generally more limited than that of the regular soldiers, and they were often seen as a necessary but less prestigious part of the Roman military. Despite their less prominent role, supernumerarii were an important component of the Roman army's overall structure and contributed to its success and longevity.