the rank and file

noun

1
: the people in the army, navy, air force, etc., who are not officers
2
: the members of a group or organization who are not leaders
The rank and file is/are unhappy with the chairman's decision.

Examples of the rank and file in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And that’s left the rank and file at both companies in a strange state of paralysis. — Brent Lang, Variety, 5 Aug. 2026 These schools admitted and trained Presbyterians who, as adults, became the rank and file of their congregations – and, as alumni, donated to their alma maters. — Thomas Adam, The Conversation, 4 Aug. 2026 Rojas on Thursday said his capture undermined the confidence of the rank and file but did not derail the dialogue process. — ABC News, 18 June 2026 Do members of the rank and file attend union meetings, defend the contract by filing grievances when needed, and support each other while on the job? — John Vukmirovich, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for the rank and file

Rhymes for the rank and file

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Browse Nearby Words

the rag trade
the rank and file
the rap
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Cite this Entry

“The rank and file.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20rank%20and%20file. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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