parade rest

American  

noun

Military.

1. a position assumed by a soldier or sailor in which the feet are 12 inches (30.48 centimeters) apart, the hands are clasped behind the back, and the head is held motionless and facing forward.

2. a command to assume this position.

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Etymology

Origin of parade rest

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

The arch was topped by a zinc sculpture of a Confederate soldier at parade rest.

From Washington Times • Jun. 4, 2017

They stand in neat, orderly ranks, like a battalion at parade rest: more than 1,500 complete uniforms from every branch of the service, cleaned and pressed and restored to all their former glory.

From Washington Times • Mar. 26, 2016

Just out of basic training, Jayson walked into headquarters and stood nervously at parade rest, wanting to make a good impression on his new commanding officer.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 13, 2015

A set was wheeled up, flicked on, and promptly revealed members of the 101st Airborne Division stiffly at parade rest outside a peaceful Central High School.

From Time Magazine Archive

Others were more patient, holding the gun across their chest at parade rest until the first bird was released.

From "Wringer" by Jerry Spinelli