rank and file
noun
1
: the enlisted personnel of an armed force
2
: the individuals who constitute the body of an organization, society, or nation as distinguished from the leaders
Synonyms
Examples of rank and file in a Sentence
the chosen few might have the opportunity for a trip in the space shuttle, but it will be a while before the rank and file are taking space trips
Recent Examples on the Web
The push came from Singapore’s Tripartite Workgroup—comprised of representatives from the government, trade unions, rank and file workers, business leaders, and HR professionals—which convened in September with the express purpose of building out the country’s flexible-work guidance.
—
Jane Thier, Fortune, 17 Apr. 2024
The Baltimore Fire Fighters Local 734, which represents the city’s rank and file firefighters, gave $3,500.
—Emily Opilo, Baltimore Sun, 19 Jan. 2024
See all Example Sentences for rank and file 
Jane Thier, Fortune, 17 Apr. 2024
The Baltimore Fire Fighters Local 734, which represents the city’s rank and file firefighters, gave $3,500.
—Emily Opilo, Baltimore Sun, 19 Jan. 2024
See all Example Sentences for rank and file
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rank and file.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near rank and file
Cite this Entry
“Rank and file.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rank%20and%20file. Accessed 29 May. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share