open order

noun

, Military.

1. a troop formation for drill or basic combat training, the intervals between the individuals being greater than those in close order.

open order

noun

1. military a formation that allows additional space between the ranks of a guard or inspected unit to allow the inspecting officer to pass

Word History and Origins

Origin of open order¹

First recorded in 1615–25

Example Sentences

The ships began to fire at 10.15 and after a quarter of an hour the flower of New Zealand advanced in open order to the attack.

From Project Gutenberg

The Indian fleet had just entered the Straits of Malacca, and were sailing in open order, with a fresh breeze and smooth water.

From Project Gutenberg

It remains now to compareThe Roman more open order compared with the phalanx.

From Project Gutenberg

Then with a glance of inquiry at his Captain, who had fallen into a brown study, "Rear rank, take open order!"

From Project Gutenberg

Then the bridge was reached and crossed, and the command was spreading fan-like into open order.

From Project Gutenberg