What does materiel mean?
Materiel refers to material, especially military equipment, supplies, or resources. It is often used in formal or technical contexts, especially in military or business settings. The word can be used to refer to equipment, supplies, or resources in general, but it is often used to emphasize the material aspect of something. Materiel is a useful word for describing the physical aspects of a situation or organization. It can be used to contrast with intangible or immaterial aspects, highlighting the importance of material resources. The word has a long history, dating back to the 17th century, and has been influenced by French and Latin. It is a useful addition to any vocabulary, especially for those working in fields that require a strong emphasis on material resources.
nounMaterial, especially military equipment, supplies, or resources.
- Material, especially military equipment, supplies, or resources.
"The army's materiel was severely damaged in the conflict."
"The army's materiel was severely damaged in the conflict."
"The company's materiel costs were significantly reduced after the merger."
The plural form 'materiels' is used to refer to multiple sets of material resources or equipment.
"The company's materiels costs were significantly reduced after the merger."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of materiel
The word materiel originated in the 17th century from the French word 'matériel', which is derived from the Latin 'materialis'. The Latin word is itself derived from 'mater', meaning 'mother', and 'ialis', a suffix indicating a quality or state. The word has been influenced by French and Latin, and has been used in English since the 17th century.
How materiel is actually used
Materiel is often used in formal or technical contexts, especially in military or business settings. It can be used to refer to equipment, supplies, or resources in general, but it is often used to emphasize the material aspect of something.