pontonier

[ pon-tn-eer ]

noun

, Military.

1. an officer or soldier in charge of bridge equipment or the construction of pontoon bridges.

pontonier

/ ˌpɒntəˈnɪə /

noun

1. obsolete.
   military a person in charge of or involved in building a pontoon bridge

Word History and Origins

Origin of pontonier¹

From the French word pontonnier, dating back to 1820–30. See pontoon ¹, -ier ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of pontonier¹

C19: from French pontonnier, from Latin pontō ferry boat, pontoon ¹

Example Sentences

Pontonier′, Pontonnier′, one who has charge of a pontoon; Pontoon′-bridge, a platform or roadway supported upon pontoons.

From Project Gutenberg

"He is a dragoon, a voltigeur, an artillerist, a pontonièr—what you will—he knows every thing, as I know my horse's saddle, and cloak-bag."

From Project Gutenberg

"Long live General Eblé!" cried the pontonier.

From Project Gutenberg