To lead or direct, especially to lead a military formation or drill; to act as an exemplar or guide.
From German 'Fugler' (drill leader), itself from 'Fuge' (joint or seam). It entered English military vocabulary in the 18th century, originally referring to the soldier who set the pace or pattern for others.
This delightfully obscure military term comes from someone literally standing at the 'seam' between two groups to lead them—it's where we get 'fugleman,' the person who demonstrates drill moves!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.