en echelon
The term "en echelon" originates from the French word "échelon," meaning a rung of a ladder, reflecting its step-like pattern.
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Definition
B2General
(general)Positioned in a staggered or overlapping manner, creating a diagonal or step-like pattern.
Example
- The houses were built en echelon along the hillside.
C1Military
(technical)A tactical formation where units are placed diagonally, each behind and to the side of the one ahead.
Example
- The troops advanced in an en echelon formation to maximize their field of fire.
C1Geology
(technical)Describes short linear features, like faults or veins, that overlap or are staggered in a diagonal line.
Example
- The en echelon fault lines indicated significant tectonic activity in the region.
C1Nautical
(technical)Refers to the staggered arrangement of gun turrets on a ship.
Example
- The battleship's turrets were arranged en echelon to optimize their firing arcs.
B2Bicycle Racing
(sports)A diagonal line of cyclists that allows for cooperative drafting in crosswinds.
Example
- The cyclists formed an en echelon to combat the strong side winds.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "en echelon":