an army unit usually consisting of a headquarters and three or more companies
"The battalion marched through the town, its strength comprising over three hundred soldiers organized into four distinct companies under a single commander."
a large indefinite number
"a battalion of ants"
"a multitude of TV antennas"
"a plurality of religions"
An army unit having two or more companies, etc. and a headquarters. Traditionally forming part of a regiment.
"The general ordered the battalion to advance across the valley under the cover of darkness."
In plain English: A battalion is a large group of soldiers that includes several smaller units and works together as part of an army.
"The battalion marched through the town square at dawn to honor the fallen soldiers."
Usage: A battalion is a military formation larger than a company but smaller than a brigade, typically consisting of several hundred soldiers organized into multiple companies under one command. Use this term specifically to describe standard infantry or armored units within an army structure rather than informal groups or small squads.
To form into battalions.
"The general ordered the scattered troops to fall in and form into battalions before advancing on the ridge."
The word battalion entered English from Middle French, where it originally referred to a large military formation. It is derived from the Italian battaglione, meaning "battle," reflecting its connection to combat units.