fusilier

or fu·si·leer

[ fyoo-zuh-leer ]

noun

1. a member of a British regiment formerly armed with fusils. fusil.

fusilier

/ ˌfjuːzɪˈlɪə /

noun

1. (formerly) an infantryman armed with a light musket
2. Alsofusileer
   1. a soldier, esp a private, serving in any of certain British or other infantry regiments
   2. ( pl; cap. when part of a name )

      the Royal Welch Fusiliers

Word History and Origins

Origin of fusilier¹

From French, dating back to 1670–80; fusil ¹, -ier ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of fusilier¹

C17: from French; see fusil ¹

Example Sentences

But the fusilier was not satisfied with the response.

From New York Times

British fusiliers and “light brigade” cavalry couldn’t subdue Afghanistan’s fiercely independent tribal fighters, and neither could our drones.

From Washington Post

The mix would likely include blacktip reef sharks, whiptail rays, small fusilier fish and brilliant tang fish, said Tim Carpenter, the aquarium’s curator of fish and invertebrates.

From Seattle Times

Shenkin IV will hold the rank of fusilier and it is hoped his first public appearance will be at National Armed Forces Day in Llandudno on 30 June.

From BBC

Both of the killers of fusilier Lee Rigby, who was murdered in London in 2013, had been subjects of interest for their extremist views but had not been under active surveillance.

From The Guardian