Leutnant

lieutenant

noun LOYT-nahnt Rare

Origin: from French lieutenant

Usage Note

Leutnant is the lowest officer rank in the German armed forces, equivalent to second lieutenant. The rank above is Oberleutnant. In historical usage, the young Leutnant was a stock figure in German literature and society.

Examples

"Der junge Leutnant übernahm das Kommando über seinen ersten Zug."

Natural Translation

The young lieutenant took command of his first platoon.

Literal Translation

The young lieutenant took over the command over his first platoon.

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