para
UK[ˈpærə]US[ˈpærə]
n
Definition 1
n
Definition 2
Etymology
The word 'para' is a clipped form, originating from the longer word 'parachute'. It entered English in the 20th century, primarily through military and aviation slang. The truncation follows a common pattern where a polysyllabic word is shortened to its first syllable or salient part for brevity and informal use. As a standalone term, 'para' has developed specific meanings related to parachuting personnel and operations, distinct from its source word.
Analysis
This word is a simplex loanword. It does not contain separable morphemes within its modern English spelling.
Examples
He served as a para during the war.
The unit was reinforced by a company of paras.
She is training for her first solo para jump.