fusilier

[ fyoo-zuh-leer ]

/ ˌfyu zəˈlɪər /

a member of a British regiment formerly armed with fusils.

Origin of fusilier

From French, dating back to 1670–80; see origin at fusil¹, -ier²

All ranks in the two Fusilier companies seemed to vie with each other in deeds of valour.

A Soldier's Experience or A Voice from the Ranks: Showing the Cost of War in Blood and Treasure |Timothy Gowing
They put back, and passing to leeward of the Fusilier, strike the flag half-mast high, as a sign that the boat is to join them.

Storm Warriors |John Gilmore
The conduct of the Fusilier Brigade on this field was the admiration of both friend and foe.

A Soldier's Experience or A Voice from the Ranks: Showing the Cost of War in Blood and Treasure |Timothy Gowing
The two Fusilier Regiments seemed to vie with each other in performing deeds of valor.

A Soldier's Experience or A Voice from the Ranks: Showing the Cost of War in Blood and Treasure |Timothy Gowing

One of the killed was a woman whose son was a Dublin Fusilier.

John Redmond's Last Years |Stephen Gwynn

fusilier

/ (ˌfjuːzɪˈlɪə) /

(formerly) an infantryman armed with a light musket

Also: fusileer

a soldier, esp a private, serving in any of certain British or other infantry regiments
(pl; cap. when part of a name)the Royal Welch Fusiliers

C17: from French; see fusil 1