corpsman
word
Definition
An enlisted member of the US Navy or Marine Corps trained to provide medical care in combat or field conditions. Pronounced "core-man" (the 'p' and 's' are silent).
Usage & Nuances
Specifically US military — the Army equivalent is "medic." Marines do not have their own medical personnel; Navy corpsmen serve with Marine units. The silent letters in pronunciation are a common source of errors. Plural: corpsmen.
Example Sentences
The corpsman treated the wounded soldier on the battlefield.
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He joined the Navy to become a corpsman.
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The Marines rely on Navy corpsmen for medical support.
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Under heavy fire, the corpsman crawled fifty meters to reach the injured Marine.
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Many people mispronounce corpsman — remember, the 'p' and 's' are silent.
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The corpsman was awarded the Navy Cross for his bravery during the ambush.
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