field marshal

American  

noun

1. an officer of the highest military rank in the British and certain other armies, and of the second highest rank in the French army.

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field marshal British  

noun

1. an officer holding the highest rank in the British and certain other armies

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Etymology

Origin of field marshal

First recorded in 1570–80

Example Sentences

He came back to Peru four years later, received an unprecedented promotion to field marshal, and explored the country’s wild interior, searching for navigable rivers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

But Aqil Shah, author and professor at Georgetown University, said the conflict "was dominated by air combat, not land-based operations" which are typically associated with field marshal honours.

From Barron's • Nov. 14, 2025

His field marshal title and uniform are for life and he will be given "responsibilities and duties" even after retirement determined by the president with the advice of the prime minister.

From BBC • Nov. 14, 2025

Melissah Shishido, 60, a friend and fifth-grade teacher, emerged as field marshal for the operation.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 16, 2023

“This is not peace,” declared French field marshal Ferdinand Foch.

From "The War to End All Wars: World War I" by Russell Freedman