troop

Troop is a word with several related meanings. It most often denotes a body of soldiers or a military unit. It can also name a local unit in youth organizations such as Scouting. In addition, troop can function as a verb meaning to move as a crowd or in a marching line.

Military usage: In many armed forces, a troop is a subunit of cavalry or armored formations, roughly equivalent in size to an infantry company. The exact size and structure vary by country and era. A squadron may comprise several troops and be commanded by a lieutenant colonel; within a troop, sections or platoons may be led by captains. The plural troops refers to soldiers collectively.

Scouting usage: In Scouting organizations, a troop is a local unit of youth members led by volunteer adults and guided by youth leaders. A troop is typically organized into smaller patrols and meets regularly for activities, advancement, and service projects.

Verb usage: As a verb, to troop means to move in a group, often in a procession or orderly march. The phrase “troops” can also describe soldiers moving together or assembling before an event.

Etymology: The term originates from Old French troupe, meaning a crowd or band, related to the sense of a group assembled for work or travel.