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Sapper - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A sapper is a military engineer who builds, repairs, or demolishes structures, fortifications, and roads. They also handle explosives and clear obstacles during combat operations. The term is often used in army contexts.

sapper

/ˈsæpər/ /ˈsapə/

Definition:

A military engineer who builds or repairs defenses, lays mines, etc.

Synonyms:

combat engineer, military engineer, pioneer

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

civilian, noncombatant

Common Collocations:

army sapper, bomb disposal, tunnel warfare, mine clearance

Derivatives:

sapping, sappers

Usage Tips:

Use "sapper" to refer to a soldier trained in engineering tasks like bridge-building or demolitions.

Common Phrases:

sapper unit, sapper team, behind enemy lines

Etymology:

From French "sapeur," from "saper" (to undermine), from Latin "sappa" (a tool for digging).

Examples:

  • 1. The sapper cleared the path of landmines swiftly.
  • 2. During the war, the sapper built a temporary bridge for troops.
  • 3. A skilled sapper can dismantle explosives safely.
  • 4. The army trained him to become a sapper last year.

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