soldier of fortune

noun

1. a person who independently seeks pleasure, wealth, etc., through adventurous exploits.
2. a military adventurer, ready to serve anywhere for pay or for pleasure.

soldier of fortune

noun

1. a man who seeks money or adventure as a soldier; mercenary

Word History and Origins

Origin of soldier of fortune¹

First recorded in 1655–65

Example Sentences

The tyrants who ruled Greek Sicilian cities in the Hellenic Age recruited soldiers of fortune for territorial expansion, and in some cases because those rulers were wildly unpopular with their citizenry and required bodyguards.

From New York Times

It called the men “soldiers of fortune” and claimed that they were not protected by the Geneva Conventions.

From New York Times

He referred to them as “soldiers of fortune” and suggested they would not qualify for protections afforded to prisoners of war under the Geneva Conventions.

From Washington Post

Fighters: The Kremlin says two captured American fighters are “soldiers of fortune” not protected by the rules of war.

From New York Times

Not old friends, but a soldier of fortune and an Australian journalist.

From New York Times