soldierly

American  

[sohl-jer-lee] / ˈsoʊl dʒər li /

adjective

1. of, like, or befitting a soldier.

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ˈsoldierly British  

/ ˈsəʊldʒəlɪ /

adjective

1. of or befitting a good soldier

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Other Word Forms

• soldierliness noun

Etymology

Origin of soldierly

First recorded in 1570–80; soldier + -ly

Example Sentences

Mr. Stephens does a superb job of following these complex campaigns, giving full scope to Marcus’ soldierly side.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 11, 2026

While Akhundzada hailed from the large and powerful Noorzai tribe, his stock within the regime was seen as more scholarly than soldierly, unlike previous leaders.

From Reuters • Sep. 7, 2021

“There are initial suspicions of violations of soldierly duties, such as the duty of comradeship, the duty to serve faithfully or the duty of obedience,” Commander Routsi said.

From New York Times • Jun. 17, 2021

“Carrying 140 pounds of extra weight in the field will do that to you,” he responds in a wooden, soldierly way, which serves as a thin veneer of modesty.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 18, 2019

Makhanda, who was tall and slender, marched in a soldierly manner and then gave a crisp, graceful salute.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela