paratrooper

[par-uh-troo-per]

noun

1. a member of a military infantry unit trained to attack or land in combat areas by parachuting from airplanes.

Word History and Origins

Origin of paratrooper¹

First recorded in 1940–45; para- ³ + trooper

Example Sentences

Royal Air Force paratroopers drew a grand applause after a coordinated display of parachute work that saw them float down to the shores.

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Mr Quinn recounted attending the civil rights' march, he said he was a bit "apprehensive" because paratroopers were on the streets.

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He then described paratroopers coming into the courtyard, with the first soldier opening fire with his rifle.

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With traditional specialists like marines or paratroopers becoming increasingly redundant on the modern battlefield, this new unit will storm Russian positions with the help of drones.

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The prosecution was seeking to use statements given by two paratroopers, named Soldier G and Soldier H, who were with Soldier F on Bloody Sunday.

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Related Words

• commando 
• fighter 
• guard 
• guerrilla 
• marine 
• mercenary 
• officer 
• pilot 
• trooper 
• veteran 
• volunteer