the rank and file
noun/ðə ˌræŋk ən ˈfaɪl/
/ðə ˌræŋk ən ˈfaɪl/
[singular + singular or plural verb]- the ordinary soldiers who are not officers
- the ordinary members of an organization
- The rank and file of the workforce is/are rarely consulted.
- rank-and-file members
Word Originreferring to the “ranks” and “files” into which privates and non-commissioned officers form on parade.
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the rank and file