English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun Uncommon

trooper

TROO-puh

Trooper (noun) means a soldier, especially one in a cavalry or armoured unit, or a state police officer (US). Example: “A state trooper pulled them over for speeding.”

noun
1
A soldier, especially one in a cavalry or armoured unit, or a state police officer (US).
"A state trooper pulled them over for speeding."
2
Someone who keeps going without complaint despite hardship — used especially in "real trooper."
"She finished the race with a sprained ankle — a real trooper."

How to use trooper

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA soldier or police officer, or (informally) someone who copes admirably with difficulty.

Common mistake

Don't confuse with "trouper," which specifically means a loyal, hardworking performer or team member.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
state trooper real trooper

Word forms

troopered past tense, troopers singular

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “trooper” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

A state _____ pulled them over for speeding.

Etymology

From "troop" + "-er"; the "someone who endures hardship" sense grew out of an older meaning tied to "trouper" (a member of a theatre troupe).

cavalryman state trooper

Related words

Rhymes for trooper

See all rhymes for trooper →

Frequently asked questions

What does “trooper” mean?

The word “trooper” means a soldier, especially one in a cavalry or armoured unit, or a state police officer (US). In plain terms, a soldier or police officer, or (informally) someone who copes admirably with difficulty.

How do you pronounce “trooper”?

“Trooper” is pronounced TROO-puh (/ˈtɹuːpə(ɹ)/ in IPA).

How do you use “trooper” in a sentence?

Here is “trooper” used in a sentence: “A state trooper pulled them over for speeding.”

What part of speech is “trooper”?

“Trooper” is a noun.

Is “trooper” a common word?

“Trooper” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “trooper” have?

“Trooper” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a soldier, especially one in a cavalry or armoured unit, or a state police officer (US).

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial