open order

American  

noun

Military.

1. a troop formation for drill or basic combat training, the intervals between the individuals being greater than those in close order.

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open order British  

noun

1. military a formation that allows additional space between the ranks of a guard or inspected unit to allow the inspecting officer to pass

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Etymology

Origin of open order

First recorded in 1615–25

Example Sentences

He said he has an open order with the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 26, 2025

The four leaders also reaffirmed support for free and open order rooted in international law.

From BBC • Sep. 25, 2021

Leonard gave an open order: keep going; if you reach the river try to establish a crossing and hold it.

From Time Magazine Archive

With hounds questing ahead, in open order, the sons of Autolykos went down a glen, Odysseus in the lead, behind the dogs, pointing his long-shadowing spear.

From "The Odyssey" by Homer

To ensure the complete success of this blunder, he formed his troops in open order, thus provoking a charge of horse.

From The Second War with England, Vol. 1 of 2 by Headley, Joel Tyler