noncom
UK[ˈnɒnkɒm]US[ˈnɑːnkɑːm]
n
A noncommissioned officer.
Morpheme Breakdown
non
com
non
not
com
commissioned
Etymology
The word "noncom" is a military slang term formed by clipping and compounding. It originates from the full phrase "noncommissioned officer," where the Latin prefix "non-" negates the state of having a formal commission or officer's warrant. The clipped element "com" derives from "commissioned," which itself traces back to the Latin committere, meaning to entrust or bring together. Thus, the term's literal logic is "one who is not commissioned," succinctly identifying enlisted personnel in positions of authority. This efficient formation reflects the practical, jargon-driven nature of military vernacular.
Analysis
Structure: non (not) + com (commissioned)
- non: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "not" or "the opposite of".
- com: A clipped form of the word "commissioned", from Latin committere meaning "to bring together, entrust".
Examples
The sergeant major is a highly respected noncom with decades of experience.
He rose through the ranks to become a senior noncom.
The lieutenant relied on the advice of her seasoned noncoms.