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Definition of the rank and file noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

the rank and file

noun
 
/ðə ˌræŋk ən ˈfaɪl/
 
/ðə ˌræŋk ən ˈfaɪl/
[singular + singular or plural verb]
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  1. the ordinary soldiers who are not officers
  2. the ordinary members of an organization
    • The rank and file of the workforce is/are rarely consulted.
    • rank-and-file members
  3. Word Originreferring to the “ranks” and “files” into which privates and non-commissioned officers form on parade.
See the rank and file in the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary
trait
noun
 
 
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