Definition of: soldier

(sōl′jər) noun
1. A person serving in an army.
2. A private in an army, as distinguished from a commissioned officer.
3. A brave, skilful, or experienced warrior.
4. One who serves loyally in any cause.
5. Colloq. One who makes a show of working but does little; a shirker; malingerer.
6. Entomol. a An asexual form (neuter or worker) of a termite or white ant, in which the head and jaws are largely developed, and whose office is to defend the community. b A similar neuter of certain true ants. See synonyms under ARMY.
—v.i.
1. To be a soldier; perform military service.
2. To make a show of working; shirk; malinger. [<OF <soude pay, wages <LL solidus. See SOL².]