Echelon - Dictionary Definition and Overview

Echelon :  (noun)
1: a body of troops arranged in a line
2: a diffraction grating consisting of a pile of plates of equal thickness arranged stepwise with a constant offset

Based on WordNet 2.0

Echelon : \Ech"e*lon\ ([e^]sh"e*l[o^]n), n. [F., fr. ['e]chelle ladder, fr. L. scala.] 1. (Mil.) An arrangement of a body of troops when its divisions are drawn up in parallel lines each to the right or the left of the one in advance of it, like the steps of a ladder in position for climbing. Also used adjectively; as, echelon distance. --Upton (Tactics).

2. (Naval) An arrangement of a fleet in a wedge or V formation. --Encyc. Dict.

Echelon lens (Optics), a large lens constructed in several parts or layers, extending in a succession of annular rings beyond the central lens; -- used in lighthouses.

Based on Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary

Echelon : \Ech"e*lon\, v. t. (Mil.) To place in echelon; to station divisions of troops in echelon.

Based on Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary

Echelon : \Ech"e*lon\, v. i. To take position in echelon.

Change direction to the left, echelon by battalion from the right. --Upton (Tactics).

Based on Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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