Brassbounder

/ˈbræsˌbaʊndər/ noun

Definition

A cadet or junior officer in the military, especially one who is inexperienced or overly rigid in following regulations; also, a large sturdy book bound with brass.

Etymology

Derived from 'brassbound' (rigidly conventional) plus '-er' (one who is), referring to a young officer who was perceived as stiff and bound by regulations like brass bands.

Kelly Says

In 19th-century naval slang, 'brassbounder' was a sarcastic term for a stiff young officer fresh from the academy—all shiny brass buttons and no real experience, taking regulations too seriously and not understanding practical seamanship.

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