escadrille

squadron (small air or naval unit)

noun es-kah-DREE Rare

Usage Note

Escadrille is a diminutive of escadre (a larger naval squadron) and refers specifically to a small group of aircraft or warships operating together. It is historically associated with World War I aviation, including the famous American volunteer unit the Lafayette Escadrille. The broader term escadron is used for army cavalry or armoured units.

Examples

"L'escadrille a décollé à l'aube."

Natural Translation

The squadron took off at dawn.

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