Bombardmen

/ˈbɒmbɑːrdmən/ noun

Definition

Plural of bombardman; soldiers who operated bombards and artillery pieces.

Etymology

Regular plural of 'bombardman' using the traditional English plural 'men' instead of '-s', following the pattern of 'man/men'.

Kelly Says

This old plural form reflects a time before 'soldier' had became the standard term—armies simply listed their personnel by what they operated: 'bombardmen,' 'pikemen,' 'musketeers.'

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Plural of 'bombardman', perpetuating masculine-only language for a role filled by people of all genders.

Inclusive Usage

Replace with 'bombardiers' or 'ordnance specialists'.

Inclusive Alternatives

["bombardiers","ordnance specialists","artillery operators"]

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