Think You Know Military Lingo? Take This Quiz on 16 Essential Phrases

Think you know military lingo? Today we’ll find out! Whether you’re a history buff, military enthusiast, or just curious about the military language, you’ll find this article very interesting! We’ll share everyday military lingo and essential military phrases. Count how many you know! As we dive into this fascinating world of military terminology, you’ll discover not only the meanings behind these phrases but also the contexts in which they are commonly used. So, gear up and get ready to enhance your vocabulary with some insightful and entertaining military lingo!

1. Ambush

Ambush is a word that the military uses to describe a surprise attack. The attack usually happens by a group of soldiers that are often hiding in concealed positions. An ambush usually happens on an unsuspecting enemy with the goal of catching the target off guard with the element of surprise, making it difficult for the target to execute an effective defence plan.

2. Artillery

The word artillery is used to refer to large-calibre weapons like cannons and rocket launchers. These types of weapons are designed to destroy enemy forces and offer long-range bombardment while supporting troops that are on the battlefield.

3. Bird

“Bird” is an informal military word that’s used quite often. It’s a nickname to talk about aircraft like helicopters or fighter jets. The word “bird” is used to refer to the machines in a way that reflects their speed and agility, much like a bird.

4. Black

The word black can have different meanings depending on the context. For example, black can be used to describe an emergency situation; black ops means black operations, which are secret missions that aren’t publicly known and highly classified; and blackout means lights and signals turned off for secrecy and to prevent any detection by the enemy.

5. Dustoff

Dustoff is a military slang phrase that is used to signify a medevac operation. It means that there is a helicopter transporting wounded soldiers from the battlefield to safe medical care. The word comes from the dust kicked up by the helicopter blades as it lands.

6. Fast Mover

The term fast mover is a military phrase to distinguish a fast-moving aircraft. It’s typically a fighter jet or attack aircraft. The term describes high-speed planes that are capable of fast and smooth manoeuvres. It helps to differentiate between slow-moving and fast-moving aircraft.

7. Boot

Boot is a military phrase used to refer to a new recruit or trainee. It’s typically used for someone in the early stages of their military service and who is inexperienced with military life and its customs.

8. Check Your Six

Check your six is a common military phrase that reminds someone to be very aware of their surroundings, particularly the area behind them. The “six” refers to the six o’clock position on a clock facing directly behind. As threats can come from any direction, it’s absolutely vital to remain vigilant of your surroundings when serving in the military.

9. Roger That

While you may have heard of the term “roger that,” do you know where it originated from? It allows the military to acknowledge that a message has been received and understood, with appropriate steps taken afterwards. The word “roger” comes from the early days of radio communication. “R” was used in the phonetic alphabet to indicate “received.”.

10. AWOL

AWOL stands for absent without leave, and the military uses it to signify that a service member is absent from their unit or assigned duty position without permission or official authorisation. A military service member being AWOL could be considered a serious offence and may be subject to disciplinary action.

11. Bite the Bullet

Bite the bullet is a military term that is used when a soldier has to endure a challenging or painful situation with courage and bravery. It originated from the practice during wartime when soldiers were given bullets to bite down on during medical procedures when anaesthesia wasn’t available. The thought was that biting the bullet would help the soldier endure the pain.

12. Soup Sandwich

Soup sandwich is a military term that is used to describe something disorganised, chaotic, and/or messy. The thought is that a soup sandwich would be nearly impossible and quite impractical. It’s used when things are in a state of confusion and when things are so out of sorts that it’s really hard to make sense of it.

13. A Good Piece of Gear

A good piece of gear is how the military refers to equipment that is high quality, reliable, and effective. It could be tools, supplies, weapons, and other pieces of equipment. The term a good piece of gear could also be used to refer to a good soldier.

14. Back on the Block

The military uses the term back on the block to refer to a service member returning to home base after being away on assignment or training for a period of time. It usually expresses that the military service member has returned to their familiar surroundings after spending time elsewhere.

15. Chair Force

“Chair force” is a humorous and slightly derogatory military slang term. It’s used to refer to members of the air force. It plays on the stereotype that Air Force members spend more time behind desks than in direct combat. It’s typically used jokingly among service members.

16. Double Digit Midget

“Double digit midget” is a military slang term that refers to missile systems that have a range or targeting capabilities of double digits. It’s for missile systems that are seen as less advanced and lightly pokes fun at older and less sophisticated and advanced weapons.

Final Thoughts

In the end, it’s clear that the military has its own language and slang. Many terms are well-known, and others are more secretive. How many of these military terms and slang phrases have you heard of? Let us know in the comments below!