a person who serves in an army as part of a country’s organized land forces
The young soldier stood proudly during the national parade.
After training, the soldier carefully cleaned her rifle in the barracks.
✦ Middle English soudeour, from Old French soudier “mercenary”, from sol “pay”.
to serve as a member of an army
He decided to soldier for his country after finishing college.
In ancient Rome, many farmers had to soldier during the summer campaigns.
✦ extension of the noun “soldier” into verb use in the 16th century.
to continue working bravely or stubbornly, especially when it is difficult; to persevere
Even though the trail was steep, the hikers soldiered up to the summit.
She had a cold but soldiered through the concert anyway.
✦ figurative extension from the steadfast qualities associated with soldiers, first recorded in the 19th century.
