rank-and-filer

[ rangk-uhn-fahy-ler ]

noun

1. a member of the rank and file.

Word History and Origins

Origin of rank-and-filer¹

1935–40, Americanism; rank and file + -er ¹

Example Sentences

During debate, Brigham McNaughton, a rank-and-filer Democrat from Freeport, received a rowdy ovation when he described a “rigged system” in which five superdelegates defy the will of the voters.

From Washington Times

The revolt was uncoordinated, lacked funds and headquarters, had as its leader a little-known rank-and-filer named Don Rarick, 37, for 19 years a worker at U.S.

From Time Magazine Archive

The rank-and-filer earns an average of $363,000 a year, not counting shaving-cream endorsements.

From Time Magazine Archive