brevet
UK[ˈbrɛvɪt]US[brəˈvɛt]
n
A commission promoting a military officer to a higher rank without the corresponding pay.
v
To promote (an officer) by brevet.
Morpheme Breakdown
brev
et
brev
short
et
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'brevet' entered English from the Old French 'brevet', meaning a 'little letter' or official note, which itself was a diminutive of 'bref' (letter), derived from the Latin 'brevis' (short). The semantic logic connects the idea of a 'short document' to a specific type of military commission—one that grants a higher rank but not the full, permanent pay and authority, making it a 'shorter' or lesser form of promotion. This reflects how a concrete term for a brief written authorization evolved into an abstract military and administrative concept.
Analysis
Structure: brev (short) + et (noun suffix)
- brev: From Latin brevis, meaning 'short'. It functions as the core root conveying the concept of brevity or a short document.
- et: A diminutive suffix of French origin, indicating a small or lesser version of something. It functions as a word-forming suffix.
Examples
He received a brevet to the rank of major for his gallant service in the battle.
The brevet promotion was an honor, though it did not increase his salary.
Several officers were brevetted after the successful campaign.