colonel

Everyday

A high-ranking officer in the army, air force or marines, above a major and below a general. tree →

In the lessons

In history and stories, colonels lead large groups of soldiers. In everyday life, Colonel Sanders is the face of a fried chicken brand. Phrases: Colonel Mustard (in the game Cluedo or Clue).

Examples

• The colonel gave the order to march. tree →
• A colonel is higher than a major. tree →
• Colonel Mustard did it in the library with the rope! tree →
• The colonel's uniform had shiny badges. tree →
• Her grandfather was a colonel in the army. tree →
• The soldiers saluted the colonel. tree →
• It was the colonel himself who came with the patrol, and he was not a little surprised when he found the recruit safe and sound. tree →

Note

Spelling and sound trap: it is spelled «colonel» but said «KER-nel», like «kernel» (the seed of corn). Capital C before a name: Colonel Smith.