Squadron
WordNet
noun
(1) An air force unit larger than a flight and smaller than a group
(2) A cavalry unit consisting of two or more troops and headquarters and supporting arms
(3) A naval unit that is detached from the fleet for a particular task
WiktionaryText
Etymology
escadron, formerly also esquadron, or squadrone. See squad.
Noun
(abbreviated to: sqn)
- Primarily, a square; hence, a square body of troops; a body of troops drawn up in a square.
- "Those half-rounding quards Just met, and, closing, stood in squadron joined." -Milton.
- (Army) A body of cavalry comprising two companies or troops, and averaging from one hundred and twenty to two hundred men.
- (Navy) A detachment of vessels employed on any particular service or station, under the command of the senior officer; as, the North Atlantic Squadron.
- (Air Force) A tactical air force unit; consists of at least two flights; multiple squadrons make up a group.