General
full bird
What does full bird mean?
A colonel (O-6), whose insignia is an eagle, as opposed to a lieutenant colonel ('light colonel'). Also 'bird colonel' or 'full bull.'
"He made full bird before he turned forty-five."
Origin
US military slang, from the eagle ('bird') rank device.
Frequently asked questions
What is a full bird?
Slang for a full colonel (O-6), whose rank insignia is an eagle — the 'bird.'
What's the difference between a full bird and a light colonel?
A 'full bird' is a colonel (O-6) with the eagle insignia; a 'light colonel' is a lieutenant colonel (O-5), the rank below.
What are other names for a full bird?
Also called a 'bird colonel' or 'full bull.'
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