camp follower

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Word: Camp Follower

Definition: A "camp follower" is a noun that refers to a person who follows a military group or camp but is not an official member of the military. Often, this term is used to describe women, particularly those who provide services, such as food or companionship, to soldiers. Sometimes it also refers to prostitutes who offer their services to military personnel.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "camp follower" when discussing historical contexts, especially related to wars or military camps.
• It can also be used in a more general sense to describe someone who supports a group but does not officially belong to it.

Example:

• "During the war, many camp followers traveled with the army, providing them with meals and supplies."
• "In historical accounts, camp followers played a crucial role in supporting the troops."

Advanced Usage:

• The term can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is an enthusiastic supporter of a group or movement without being an official member. For example, "He is a camp follower of the latest fashion trends, always trying to keep up with what everyone else is doing."

Word Variants:

• "Camp" (noun): a place where soldiers are stationed.
• "Follower" (noun): a person who supports or is attached to a leader or group.

Different Meanings:

1. In a historical context: Referring specifically to the support roles in military settings.
2. In a metaphorical sense: Someone who closely follows trends or popular movements without being a direct participant.

Synonyms:

• Supporter
• Adherent (in a non-military context)
• Groupie (in a more casual sense)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to "camp follower," but you can use phrases like "follow the crowd" to express similar ideas.

Conclusion:

Understanding the term "camp follower" gives insight into both historical military contexts and the nature of support roles in various groups.

Academic

Noun

1. a follower who is not a member of an ingroup
2. a prostitute who provides service to military personnel