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deployment

dee-PLOY-muhnt /dɪˈplɔɪmənt/

nounC1TOEFLIELTS

formalmilitary

The movement of troops or equipment to a place or position for military action; the action of bringing resources into effective action.

Primarily military, but can also refer to the strategic positioning of non-military resources (e.g., software deployment).

The story behind the word. The word 'deployment' comes from the Old French 'desployer,' meaning 'to unfold' or 'to spread out.' This perfectly captures the military sense of unfolding a formation or spreading out troops and equipment into a strategic position. It's about taking something compact and making it ready for action, whether it's a battle line or a new software system.

Word relationships

stationing: Placing troops in a particular location for duty.
positioning: Placing in a particular position.
mobilization: The act of assembling and making ready for war or active service.

withdrawal: The act of taking troops or forces out of an area.
repatriation: The return of someone to their own country.

Word family

deploy (verb): To move troops or equipment into position for military action; to bring into effective action.

Collocations

troop deployment
rapid deployment
military deployment
software deployment

Example sentences

"The rapid deployment of the aircraft carrier strike group to the region sent a clear message of deterrence." Describing military operations.
"The successful deployment of the new software system across all branches significantly improved operational efficiency." Referring to non-military use.

Memory hook

DEPLOYMENT is when you DE-PLOY (unfold) your forces for action. Unfold for action

When not to use

Do not use 'deployment' for casual movement or simple relocation; it implies strategic positioning for a specific purpose.

Fun facts

The term 'deploy' was originally used in military contexts for spreading out troops from column formation into a line of battle.