platoon

A group of about thirty to forty soldiers, usually led by a junior officer.

• A platoon guarded the bridge.
• She led her platoon across the valley.
• Two platoons joined the search at dawn.

Common phrases: infantry platoon, command a platoon, platoon leader

A group within a fire service company, led by an officer.

• The platoon returned to the fire station.
• A captain led the platoon during the rescue.
• Two platoons worked together to control the fire.

Common phrases: fire platoon, platoon captain, platoon on duty

A close group of self-driving vehicles that share information electronically while travelling together.

• The trucks formed a platoon.
• Each vehicle in the platoon shared its speed electronically.
• An autonomous platoon travelled along the highway.

Similar words: convoy

Common phrases: vehicle platoon, autonomous platoon, truck platoon

To take turns starting baseball games with another player, depending on which hand the opposing pitcher uses.

• The two batters platoon in left field.
• The manager platooned them against different pitchers.
• Will you platoon with a left-handed teammate?

How to use it: platoon with someone (He platoons with a right-handed batter.)

Similar words: alternate

Common phrases: platoon with someone, platoon two players

To focus on one position or type of play in a sport.

• These players platoon on defense.
• The coach lets some athletes platoon in specific positions.
• He platooned on offense throughout the season.

How to use it: platoon on offense/defense (The new players platoon on defense.)

Similar words: specialize

Common phrases: platoon on defense, platoon on offense

For self-driving vehicles to travel close together while sharing information electronically.

• These trucks can platoon together.
• The vehicles platooned along the highway using wireless links.
• Can autonomous buses platoon safely in traffic?

Common phrases: platoon together, platoon on highways