line officer

noun

1. a military or naval officer serving with combatant units or warships, as distinguished from a staff officer, supply officer, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of line officer¹

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50

Example Sentences

"B" company being taken over by Capt. Branthwaite, a recently joined 2nd line officer.

From Project Gutenberg

As senior line officer aboard, I'm assuming command for the rest of the voyage.

From Project Gutenberg

I watched the field surgeons gather about a young line officer brought in with a shot through his neck.

From Project Gutenberg

The volume of business will usually warrant making him a line officer with the rank and title of assistant general manager.

From Project Gutenberg

The first line officer needed no staff, because he had time to think as well as act for himself.

From Project Gutenberg