Pronunciation: [kˈɔːpɹə͡l] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "corporal" is quite tricky, as it may not be pronounced the way it looks. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈkɔːprəl/. The initial "c" is pronounced as a "k" sound, followed by a long "o" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a short "o" sound and a "p" sound. The final syllable has a short "a" sound and an "l" sound. Therefore, the correct pronunciation would be "KAW-puh-ruhl".
The term "corporal" can be understood in several contexts. As a noun, it refers to a noncommissioned officer in the armed forces who holds a rank above a private but below a sergeant. The corporal is entrusted with supervising and directing the activities of a small unit or team. They act as a link between the enlisted personnel and the higher-ranking officers, and are responsible for maintaining discipline, training, and morale within their unit.
In a legal sense, "corporal" can be used to describe punishment that involves physical pain or bodily harm. Corporal punishment typically includes actions like whipping, caning, or spanking, and is often administered as a disciplinary measure, particularly in educational or legal systems.
Additionally, "corporal" relates to the human body. In this context, it refers to the physical form or structure of a person, emphasizing the tangible nature of their existence. It highlights the aspect of the body that can be observed, measured, or treated medically.
Furthermore, "corporal" can also be used as an adjective to describe something that is related to the body or physical characteristics, as opposed to mental or psychological traits. For example, "corporal punishment" or "corporal exercise" demonstrates the physical aspect of the actions or activities involved.
Bodily, relating to the body.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• Of or relating to the body; pert. to the animal frame in its proper sense.
• The lowest non-commissioned officer in a company of foot; in the navy, an officer under the master-at-arms.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "corporal" comes from the Latin term "corporalis", which means "of the body" or "relating to the body". It is derived from the Latin word "corpus", meaning "body". Through Old French and Middle English, the word eventually evolved into "corporal" in modern English.
