charge of quarters

noun

1. an enlisted person, usually a noncommissioned officer, who remains on duty and handles administrative matters in a military or other unit during the night or on holidays.
2. the duty of a charge of quarters.

charge of quarters

noun

1. a member of the armed forces who handles administration in his unit, esp after duty hours

Word History and Origins

Origin of charge of quarters¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

At first call the non-commissioned officer in charge of quarters, or some other charged with that duty, will go through the barracks and awaken the men.

From Project Gutenberg

The noncommissioned officer in charge of quarters, detailed for 24 hours goes on duty each day at reveille.

From Project Gutenberg

At sick call all men who are sick fall in and are marched to the regimental infirmary, under charge of the noncommissioned officer in charge of quarters.

From Project Gutenberg