The spelling of the phrase "march pasts" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable, "march," is spelled /mɑːrtʃ/, with the "a" sound pronounced like "car" and the "ch" pronounced like "check." The second syllable, "pasts," is spelled /pæsts/, with the "a" sound pronounced like "cat" and the "s" sound pronounced like "sit." Together, the phrase is pronounced /mɑːrtʃ pæsts/, and refers to a military procession in which troops march in front of a reviewing stand.
March pasts refer to formal processions or parades, consisting of various organized groups, typically military units or organizations, that move in a uniform and synchronized manner. The term "march pasts" originates from the military tradition of marching in a prescribed formation or order past a reviewing stand or a designated point, where high-ranking officials or dignitaries, such as royalty, military commanders, or political leaders, observe and salute the passing troops.
During a march past, participants move forward in a straight line or in columns, maintaining a strict alignment and cadence, while executing precise footwork and uniformed steps. The purpose of these events may vary, ranging from celebrating important national holidays, commemorating historical occasions, to demonstrating military prowess and discipline.
March pasts often involve the display of military paraphernalia, such as flags, banners, and colors, as well as the performance of various ceremonial drills or formations, including saluting the reviewing party, presenting arms, and playing national anthems or martial music. These highly choreographed events symbolize unity, discipline, and loyalty, showcasing the strength and allegiance of the participating personnel or organizations. March pasts can evoke a sense of national pride, foster camaraderie among participants, and create a spectacle that captivates and inspires those watching.
The word "march" in the context of military parades or drills comes from Old French "marchier" or "marche", which means "to tread" or "to walk" in a military manner. This term was derived from Late Latin "marcare", meaning "to mark out a boundary" or "to pace out" a route. The word "past" is the plural form of "pass", which originally meant "to pass by" or "to go beyond" in Old English. So, "march pasts" refers to the act of troops passing by or going beyond a specific point in a military parade or drill.