Guerrilla

Definition

Guerrilla refers to a member of a small independent group taking part in irregular fighting, typically against larger regular forces.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡəˈrɪlə/
• Respelling: guh-RIL-uh (with "guh" as in "gull," "RIL" as in "grill," and "uh" as in "sofa")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡəˈrɪlə/
• Respelling: guh-RIL-uh (with "guh" as in "gull," "RIL" as in "grill," and "uh" as in "sofa")

In both dialects, "guerrilla" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "RIL." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "guh-RIL-uh."

Etymology

The term "guerrilla" originates from the Spanish word "guerrilla" meaning "little war." It was used to describe the fighters in the Peninsular War who opposed Napoleon's forces, using hit-and-run tactics.

Derivatives

• Guerrilla warfare (noun)
• Guerrillaism (noun)
• Guerrillero (noun, Spanish form)
• Guerrillero (noun, another term for guerrilla fighter)
• Guerrilla-style (adjective)

Synonyms

• Partisan
• Insurgent
• Revolutionary

Antonyms

• Regular (as in regular armed forces)
• Conventional
• Official

Usage

The term "guerrilla" is often used in military contexts to describe non-traditional warfare tactics, where small groups use mobility, surprise, and local support to fight against a larger, less mobile traditional army. It is also used metaphorically in various fields, such as marketing and politics, to describe unconventional strategies.

Related Terms

• Insurrection
• Resistance
• Rebellion
• Asymmetric warfare
• Underground movement

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A Member of an Irregular Fighting Group: A combatant who belongs to a small, independent group engaged in irregular warfare, typically against a larger, more organized force.
  • Example: The guerrillas launched a surprise attack on the enemy supply line.

• A Fighter Using Unconventional Tactics: A person employing non-traditional methods of combat, often relying on sabotage, ambushes, and hit-and-run tactics.
  • Example: Guerrillas are known for their deep knowledge of local terrain, which they use to their advantage.

Adjective

• Relating to Irregular Warfare: Pertaining to the activities, tactics, or fighters associated with guerrilla warfare.
  • Example: The army struggled to counter the guerrilla tactics employed by the insurgents.

• Unconventional or Irregular: Used metaphorically to describe actions or strategies that are non-traditional or unconventional.
  • Example: The startup used guerrilla marketing techniques to promote their product with minimal budget.