Category:Echelon

Ech"e*lon, n. Etym: [F., fr. échelle ladder, fr. L. scala.]

1. (Mil.)

Defn: An arrangement of a body of troops when its divisions are drawn up in parallel lines each to the right or the left of the one in advance of it, like the steps of a ladder in position for climbing. Also used adjectively; as, echelon distance. Upton (Tactics).

2. (Naval)

Defn: An arrangement of a fleet in a wedge or Encyc. Dict. Echelon lens (Optics), a large lens constructed in several parts or layers, extending in a succession of annular rings beyond the central lens; - - used in lighthouses.

echelon Ech"e*lon, v. t. (Mil.)

Defn: To place in echelon; to station divisions of troops in echelon.

echelon Ech"e*lon, v. i.

Defn: To take position in echelon. Change direction to the left, echelon by battalion from the right. Upton (Tactics).