How Do You Spell LEATHERNECK?

Pronunciation: [lˈɛðənˌɛk] (IPA)

Leatherneck, a term often used to refer to United States Marines, is spelled with three syllables: "leath-er-neck". The IPA phonetic transcription for the word is /ˈlɛðərnɛk/. The first syllable, "leath", is pronounced with a short e sound followed by a voiced th sound. The second syllable, "er", has a schwa sound followed by a rhotic r sound. The final syllable, "neck", has a short e sound followed by a voiceless k sound. The word is thought to originate from the leather stocks that were once worn around the necks of Marines as part of their uniform.

LEATHERNECK Meaning and Definition

1. Leatherneck refers to a noun that commonly denotes a U.S. Marine, particularly one who served during the historical period associated with the use of leather as a component of their uniform. The term is derived from the appearance of a high, stiff leather collar (known as a "stock") that was part of the Marine Corps' dress uniform during the 19th century. This distinctive feature gave the Marines a distinct appearance and earned them the name "leathernecks."

   Beyond its literal meaning, "leatherneck" has become a colloquial term to refer to any active or retired Marine. The term often carries a sense of admiration, respect, and grit associated with military service and the toughness traditionally attributed to Marines. It holds a certain level of pride, representing a history and dedication to duty.

   The term "leatherneck" carries elements of tradition and embodies the Marine Corps identity, acting as a symbol for the core values and ethos instilled within its members. It has become a succinct way to refer to military service in the Marine Corps, signifying bravery, resilience, and the ability to overcome adversity.

   Overall, "leatherneck" is a term that encompasses the historical, cultural, and symbolic aspects associated with U.S. Marines. It embraces a sense of honor, courage, and strength, reflecting the uniqueness and pride within the Marine Corps community.

Common Misspellings for LEATHERNECK

• leatherbeck
• keatherneck
• peatherneck
• oeatherneck
• lwatherneck
• lsatherneck
• ldatherneck
• lratherneck
• l4atherneck
• l3atherneck
• leathernek
• leathernecke
• Leytherneck
• Leatherbec
• Leatherwerk

Etymology of LEATHERNECK

The word "leatherneck" originated as a slang term used to describe American Marines. Its etymology is believed to have two possible origins:

1. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Marines wore high leather collars to protect their necks from saber cuts. These collars were a distinguishing feature and earned them the nickname "leathernecks".

2. Another possible origin stems from the early 19th-century practice among Marines of wearing a stock or leather neckpiece as part of their uniform. This leather stock was a stiffened and tall band that encircled the neck and provided support to hold the head upright. It is said that this stock gave the Marines a more rigid appearance, which eventually led to the nickname "leathernecks".

Both of these explanations highlight the connection between the leather collars or stocks worn by Marines and the evolution of the term "leatherneck" to refer to them.

Similar spelling words for LEATHERNECK

• Leathering,
• Lathering,
• leatherwing,
• leatherman.

Plural form of LEATHERNECK is LEATHERNECKS