Vocabulary Spotlight

Adjutant

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A military officer who acts as an administrative assistant to a senior officer.

“The colonel’s adjutant efficiently managed all communications and schedules.”

Pronunciation

[aj-uh-tuhnt]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Assistant
Aide
Secretary
Helper
Deputy

Antonyms

Commander
Chief
Leader
Supervisor
Director

Related Words

Adjunct
Subordinate
Support

Word Origin

“Adjutant” originates from the Latin “adiutare,” meaning “to aid or assist.” The term entered English in the 17th century in a military context.

Word Family

Noun: Adjutant – An officer serving as an assistant to a senior official.

Related Noun: Adjutancy – The position or office of an adjutant.

Mnemonics

Think of “ad-just” — an adjutant is someone who adjusts tasks for the commanding officer, assisting with management.

Industry-specific Usage

Military

In the military, an adjutant assists high-ranking officers with administrative duties and personnel management.

Government

In some countries, adjutants serve as aides to government officials, managing official tasks and schedules.

Organizations

Adjutants in large organizations help manage the schedules and communications of executives.

In Context

Adjutants play an important support role in hierarchical settings, helping leaders manage responsibilities efficiently. Their assistance enables leaders to focus on strategic decisions.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which of the following is a synonym for “Adjutant”?

Commander
Leader
Assistant
Supervisor

“Assistant” is a synonym for adjutant as both imply a supporting role.

2. Fill in the blank: The general relied on his ______ to organize official correspondence and meetings.

commander
adjutant
subordinate
chief

“Adjutant” is correct here, as it describes an assistant to the general.

3. In which scenario would an adjutant be necessary?

A senior officer needing organizational assistance
A technician repairing equipment
A manager conducting a meeting
A leader giving a speech

A senior officer needing assistance would likely have an adjutant to handle administrative tasks.