CAMP FOLLOWER Meaning and
Definition
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A camp follower is a term used to describe an individual, often a civilian, who accompanies soldiers or a military unit for various reasons during times of war or conflict. The term originated from historical contexts, particularly prevalent during earlier military campaigns. Camp followers could include a wide range of people, such as merchants, traders, support personnel, and even families of soldiers.
Camp followers predominantly fulfilled auxiliary roles to support the military, ensuring the provision of essential services like cooking, laundering, nursing, and other domestic tasks required for the soldiers' well-being. They not only assisted with day-to-day activities but also played a pivotal role in boosting morale and maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst the hardships of war.
Typically, camp followers traveled and resided in close proximity to the military encampments, establishing their own temporary communities. Though they were not directly involved in combat operations, camp followers were indirectly impacted by the conflicts they accompanied, often facing dangers and hardships themselves. Furthermore, they often endured challenging conditions and unpredictability, as their safety and survival relied heavily on the military's successes and stability.
Over time, the term "camp follower" has also been used metaphorically outside military contexts to describe individuals who attach themselves to a group or organization for personal gain, often without actively participating in the primary goals or missions. This figurative usage emphasizes the notion of individuals following or associating themselves with a group without necessarily sharing the same motives or ideals.
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One who follows an army without serving.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CAMP FOLLOWER
- xamp follower
- vamp follower
- famp follower
- damp follower
- czmp follower
- csmp follower
- cwmp follower
- cqmp follower
- canp follower
- cakp follower
- cajp follower
- camo follower
- caml follower
- cam- follower
- cam0 follower
- camp dollower
- camp collower
- camp vollower
- camp gollower
Etymology of CAMP FOLLOWER
The term "camp follower" originates from the noun "camp" and the verb "follow", creating a compound phrase to describe a specific type of individual.
The word "camp" comes from the Latin word "castrum", meaning "fort" or "encampment". It went through various forms in Old French and Middle English before settling into its current spelling and pronunciation. Over time, "camp" came to represent a temporary dwelling or a group of people living together in a particular place, such as soldiers or travelers.
The word "follow" has Old English roots, derived from the Old English verb "folgian". This verb meant "to go after" or "accompany someone". It has Germanic origins and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages.
Idioms with the word CAMP FOLLOWER
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a camp follower
The idiom "a camp follower" refers to a person, typically a woman, who accompanies an army or military unit, often providing various services or support. These individuals are not officially affiliated with the military and tend to travel with the troops, providing services such as cooking, laundry, or even engaging in relationships with the soldiers. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who attaches themselves to a particular group or cause for personal gain or advantage.
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camp follower
A camp follower is someone who attaches themselves to a military camp or group, often providing services such as cooking, cleaning, or entertainment in exchange for food, shelter, or protection. This term can also be used to describe someone who follows a group or organization unofficially, typically for self-serving reasons.
Similar spelling word for CAMP FOLLOWER
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