Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Ontology
description: In this so-called dictionary I have tried to list most of the pet terms and slangy definitions, which Tommy Atkins uses a thousand times a day as he is serving in France. I have gathered them as I lived with him in the trenches and rest billets, and later in the hospitals in England where I met men from all parts of the line. The definitions are not official, of course. Tommy is not a sentimental sort of animal so some of his definitions are not exactly complimentary, but he is not cynical and does not mean to offend anyone higher up. It is just a sort of "ragging" or "kidding," as the American would say, that helps him pass the time away.
comment: As extracted and converted into OWL / RDF by the Muninn Project.
date: 2013-09-04
term status: Stable
creator: Warren
publisher: Muninn
rights: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
attribution name: The Muninn Project
attribution URL: http://www.muninn-project.org/
preferred namespace prefix: ott
version info: 1.0
was generated by: Extracted from Over the Top, by Arthur Guy Empey by Rob Warren, Muninn Project.

Extracted from Over the Top, by Arthur Guy Empey by Rob Warren, Muninn Project.
type: Activity
started at time: 2013-09-4T01:01:01Z
ended at time: 2013-09-4T01:01:01Z
was associated with: Muninn
was associated with: Warren
had primary source: about.rdf

Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: ConceptScheme
comment: As extracted and converted into OWL / RDF by the Muninn Project. Shallow dictionary of terms in SKOS format.

Allemand
type: Concept
definition: A French term meaning "German." Tommy uses it because he thinks it is a swear word. @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Allumettes
type: Concept
definition: French term for what they sell to Tommy as matches, the sulphurous fumes from which have been known to "gas" a whole platoon. @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Apres la Guerre
type: Concept
definition: "After the war." Tommy's definition of Heaven. @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Chevaux-de-frise
type: Concept
definition: Barbed-wire defenses against cavalry. @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable

Compray
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's French for "Do you understand?" Universally used in the trenches. @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Deruffs
type: Concept
alternative label: Deuxosufs @fr
definition: Tommy's French for "two eggs." @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Du pan
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's French for bread. @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Estaminet
type: Concept
definition: A French public house, or saloon, where muddy water is sold for beer. @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Poilu
type: Concept
definition: French term for their private soldier. Tommy would use it and sometimes does, but each time he pronounces it differently, so no one knows what he is talking about. @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Souvenir
type: Concept
definition: A begging word used by the French kiddies. When it is addressed to Tommy it generally means, a penny, biscuits, bully beef, or a tin of jam. @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable

Vin Blanc
type: Concept
definition: French white wine made from vinegar. They forgot the red ink. @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Vin Rouge
type: Concept
definition: French red wine made from vinegar and red ink. Tommy pays good money for it. @fr
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Sausage Balloon
type: Concept
comment: See observation balloon.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable
related: Observation Balloon

Smoke Helmet
type: Concept
comment: See respirator.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
related: Respirator
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Star Shell
type: Concept
comment: See Flare.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable
related: Flare

Very-Lights
type: Concept
comment: A star shell invented by Mr. Very. See Flare.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
related: Flare

Wire
type: Concept
comment: See barbed wire, but don't go "over the top" to look at it. It isn't safe.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
related: Barbed Wire

About turn
type: Concept
definition: A military command similar to "About face" or "To the rear, march." Tommy's nickname for Hebuterne, a point on the British line.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Adjutant
type: Concept
definition: The name given to an officer who helps the Colonel do nothing. He rides a horse and you see him at guard mounting and battalion parade.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Assistant Director of Medical Service
type: Concept
acronym: A.D.M.S.
definition: Have never seen him but he is supposed to help the D. M. S. and pass on cases where Tommy is posted as "unfit for trench service."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Aerial Torpedo
type: Concept
definition: A kind of trench mortar shell, guaranteed by the makers to break up Fritz's supper of sausages and beer, even though said supper is in a dugout thirty feet down. Sometimes it lives up to its reputation.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Alarm
type: Concept
definition: A signal given in the trenches that the enemy is about to attack, frequently false. It is mainly used to break up Tommy's dreams of home.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

All around traverse
type: Concept
definition: A machine gun so placed that its fire can be turned in any direction.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable

Allotment
type: Concept
definition: A certain sum Tommy allows to his family.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable

Ammo
type: Concept
definition: Rifle ammunition. Used to add weight to Tommy's belt. He carries 120 rounds, at all times, except when he buries it under the straw in his billet before going on a route march. In the trenches he expends it in the direction of Berlin.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Ammo Depot
type: Concept
definition: A place where ammunition is stored. It is especially useful in making enemy airmen waste bombs trying to hit it.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Ammonal
type: Concept
definition: A high explosive used in the Mills bomb. The Germans are more able than Tommy to discourse on its effects.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Any complaints
type: Concept
definition: A useless question asked by an inspecting officer when he makes the rounds of billets or Tommy's meals. A complaining Tommy generally lands on the crime sheet. It is only recruits who complain; the old men just sigh with disgust.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Army Ordnance Corps
type: Concept
acronym: A.O.C.
definition: A department which deals out supplies to the troops. Its chief asset is the returning of requisitions because a comma is misplaced.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Assistant Provost Marshal
type: Concept
acronym: A.P.M.
definition: An officer at the head of the Military Police. His headquarters are generally out of reach of the enemy's guns. His chief duties are to ride around in a motor car and wear a red band around his cap.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Army Service Corps
type: Concept
acronym: A.S.C.
definition: , or Army Safety Corps as Tommy calls it. The members of which bring up supplies to the rear of the line.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Back 'o the line
type: Concept
definition: Any place behind the firing line out of range of enemy guns.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable

Baler
type: Concept
definition: A scoop affair for baling out water from the trenches and dugouts. As the trenches generally drain the surrounding landscape, the sun has to be appealed to before the job is completed.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Bantams
type: Concept
definition: Men under the standard army height of 5 ft. 3 in. They are in a separate organization called "The Bantam Battalion," and although undersized have the opinion that they can lick the whole German Army.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Barbed Wire
type: Concept
definition: A lot of prickly wire entwined around stakes driven in front of the trenches. This obstruction is supposed to prevent the Germans from taking lodgings in your dugouts. It also affords the enemy artillery rare sport trying to blow it up.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Barndook
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's nickname for his rifle. He uses it because it is harder to say and spell than "rifle."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Barrage
type: Concept
definition: Concentrated shell-fire on a sector of the German line. In the early days of the war, when ammunition was defective, it often landed on Tommy himself.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Barricade
type: Concept
definition: An obstruction of sandbags to impede the enemy's traffic into your trench. You build it up and he promptly knocks it down, so what's the use.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Bashed in
type: Concept
definition: Smashed by a shell. Generally applied to a trench or dugout.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable

Batman
type: Concept
definition: A man who volunteers to clean a non-commissioned officer's buttons but who never volunteers for a trench raid. He ranks next to a worm.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Bayonet
type: Concept
definition: A sort of knife-like contrivance which fits on the end of your rifle. The Government issues it to stab Germans with. Tommy uses it to toast bread.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Big Boys
type: Concept
definition: Large guns, generally eight inch or above.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Big Push
type: Concept
definition: "The Battle of the Somme." He often calls it "The First of July," the date on which it started.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Big Stuff
type: Concept
definition: Large shells, eight inch or over.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Big Willie
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for his personal friend, the Kaiser.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Nickname
term status: Stable

Billet
type: Concept
definition: Sometimes a regular house but generally a stable where Tommy sleeps while behind the lines. It is generally located near a large manure pile. Most billets have numerous entrances-one for Tommy and the rest for rain, rats, wind, and shells.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Billet Guard
type: Concept
definition: Three men and a corporal who are posted to guard the billets of soldiers. They do this until the orderly officer has made his rounds at night, then they go to sleep.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Biscuit
type: Concept
definition: A concoction of flour and water, baked until very hard. Its original use was for building purposes, but Tommy is supposed to eat it. Tommy is no coward but he balks at this. Biscuits make excellent fuel, and give no smoke.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Bivouac
type: Concept
definition: A term given by Tommy to a sort of tent made out of waterproof sheets.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Blastine
type: Concept
definition: A high explosive which promotes Kultur in the German lines,
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Blighty
type: Concept
definition: An East Indian term meaning "over the seas." Tommy has adopted it as a synonym for home. He tries numerous ways of reaching Blighty, but the "powers that be" are wise to all of his attempts, so he generally fails.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Blighty One
type: Concept
definition: A wound serious enough to send Tommy to England.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Brigade Machine Gun Company
type: Concept
acronym: B.M.G.C.
definition: Brigade Machine Gun Company, composed of Vickers machine gunners. They always put their packs on a limber or small wagon while route marching, which fact greatly arouses the Jealousy of Tommy.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Body Snatcher
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for a sniper.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Bomb
type: Concept
definition: An infernal device filled with high explosive which you throw at the Germans. Its chief delight is to explode before it leaves your hand.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Bomb Store
type: Concept
definition: A place where bombs are kept, built so the enemy cannot locate them with his fire. For that matter, Tommy can't either when he needs them.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Bombing Post
type: Concept
definition: A sort of trench or sap running from your front line to within a few yards of the enemy's trench. It is occupied by bomb throwers who would like to sign an agreement with the Germans for neither side to throw bombs.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Brag
type: Concept
definition: A card game similar to poker at which every player quits a loser and no one wins, that is, according to the statements of the several players.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Brazier
type: Concept
definition: A sheet iron pot punched full of holes in which a fire is built. It is used to keep Tommy warm in his dugout until he becomes unconscious from its smoke and fumes. He calls it a "fire bucket."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Brigade Guard
type: Concept
definition: Several men who are detailed to guard Brigade Headquarters. They don't go to sleep.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Battalion Sergeant-Major. The highest ranking non-commissioned officer in the battalion. A constant dread to Tommy when he has forgotten to polish his buttons or dubbin his boots.
type: Concept
acronym: B.S.M.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Bully Beef
type: Concept
definition: A kind of corned beef with tin round it. The unopened cans make excellent walls for dugouts.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Burm
type: Concept
definition: A narrow ledge cut along the walls of a trench to prevent earth from caving in. "Burm" to Tommy is a cuss word, because he has to "go over the top" at night to construct it.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Busted
type: Concept
definition: Term applied when a non-commissioned officer is reduced by court-martial.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Button Stick
type: Concept
definition: A contrivance made of brass ten inches long which slides over the buttons and protects the tunic in cleaning.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Called to the colors
type: Concept
definition: A man on reserve who has been ordered to report for service.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Camel Corps
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's nickname for the Infantry because they look like overloaded camels, and probably because they also go eight days, and longer, without a drink, that is, of the real stuff.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Candle
type: Concept
definition: A piece of wick surrounded by wax or tallow used for lighting purposes. One candle among six men is the general issue.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Canister
type: Concept
definition: A German trench mortar shell filled with scraps of iron and nails. Tommy really has a great contempt for this little token of German affection and he uses the nails to hang his equipment on in the dugouts.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Canteen
type: Concept
definition: A mess tin issued to Tommy, who, after dinner, generally forgets to wash it, and pinches his mates for tea in the evening.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Carry on
type: Concept
definition: Resume. Keep on with what you are doing. Go ahead.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
term status: Stable

Carrying in
type: Concept
definition: Machine gunners' term for taking guns, ammunition, etc., into front-line trench.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Caterpillar
type: Concept
definition: Is not a bug, but the name given to a powerful engine used to haul the big guns over rough roads.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Casualty Clearing Station
type: Concept
acronym: C.C.S.
definition: A place where the doctors draw lots to see if Tommy is badly wounded enough to be sent to Blighty.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Chalk Pit
type: Concept
definition: A white spot on a painted landscape used at the Machine Gunners' School to train would-be gunners in picking out distinctive objects in landscapes and guessing ranges.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Challenge
type: Concept
definition: A question, "Who goes there?" thrown at an unknown moving object by a sentry in the darkness, who hopes that said moving object will answer, "Friend."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Char
type: Concept
definition: A black poisonous brew which Tommy calls tea.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Chucking his weight about
type: Concept
definition: Self-important. Generally applied to a newly promoted non-commissioned officer or a recruit airing his knowledge.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Chum
type: Concept
definition: An endearing word used by Tommy to his mate when he wants to borrow something or have a favor done.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Clicked it
type: Concept
definition: Got killed; up against it; wounded.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Clock
type: Concept
definition: "Trench" for the face.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Coal Box
type: Concept
definition: The nickname for a high explosive German shell fired from a 5.9 howitzer which emits a heavy black smoke and makes Tommy's hair stand on end.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Coal Fatigue
type: Concept
definition: A detail on which Tommy has to ride in a limber and fill two sacks with coal. It takes him exactly four hours to do this. He always misses morning parade, but manages to get back in time for dinner.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Cole
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's nickname for a penny. It buys one glass of French beer.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Coming it
type: Concept
definition: Trying to "put something over."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Coming the add
type: Concept
definition: Boasting; lying about something.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Communication Trench
type: Concept
definition: A zigzag ditch leading from the rear to the front-line trench, through which reinforcements, reliefs, ammunition, and rations are brought up. Its real use is to teach Tommy how to swear and how to wade through mud up to his knees.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Communique
type: Concept
definition: An official report which is published daily by the different warring governments for the purpose of kidding the public. They don't kid Tommy.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Company Stores
type: Concept
definition: The Quartermaster-Sergeant's headquarters where stores are kept. A general hang-out for batmen, officers' servants, and N.C.O.'s.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Conscript
type: Concept
definition: A man who tried to wait until the war was over before volunteering for the army, but was balked by the Government.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Consolidate captured line
type: Concept
definition: Digging in or preparing a captured position for defence against a counter-attack.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Convalescence
type: Concept
definition: Six weeks' rest allotted to a wounded Tommy. During this time the Government is planning where they will send Tommy to be wounded a second time.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Church of England
type: Concept
acronym: C. of E.
definition: This is stamped on Tommy's identification disk. He has to attend church parade whether or not he wants to go to Heaven.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Cook
type: Concept
definition: A soldier detailed to spoil Tommy's rations. He is generally picked because he was a blacksmith in civil life.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Cooties
type: Concept
definition: Unwelcome inhabitants of Tommy's shirt.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Counter Attack
type: Concept
definition: A disagreeable habit of the enemy which makes Tommy realize that after capturing a position the hardest work is to hold it.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Covering Party
type: Concept
definition: A number of men detailed to lie down in front of a working party while "out in front" to prevent surprise and capture by German patrols. Tommy loves this job, I don't think!
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Crater
type: Concept
definition: A large circular hole in the ground made by the explosion of a mine. According to Official Communiques, Tommy always occupies a crater with great credit to himself. But sometimes the Germans get there first.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Cricket ball
type: Concept
definition: The name given to a bomb the shape and size of a cricket ball. Tommy does not use it to play cricket with.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Crime Sheet
type: Concept
definition: A useless piece of paper on which is kept a record of Tommy's misdemeanors.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Crump
type: Concept
definition: A name given by Tommy to a high explosive German shell which when it bursts makes a "Crump" sort of noise.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Company Sergeant-Major
type: Concept
acronym: C.S.M.
definition: Company Sergeant-Major, the head non-commissioned officer of a company, whose chief duty is to wear a crown on his arm, a couple of Boer War ribbons on his chest, and to put Tommy's name and number on the crime sheet.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Curtain fire
type: Concept
definition: A term-applied by the artillery to a wall of shell fire on the enemy communication trenches, to prevent the bringing up of men and supplies, and also to keep our own front lines from wavering. But somehow or other men and supplies manage to leak through it.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Cushy
type: Concept
definition: Easy; comfortable; ''pretty soft."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Divisional Ammunition Column
type: Concept
acronym: D.A.C.
definition: A collection of men, horses, and limbers, which supplies ammunition for the line and keeps Tommy awake, while in billets, with their infernal noise. They are like owls-always working at night.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Distinguished Conduct Medal
type: Concept
acronym: D.C.M.
definition: A piece of bronze which a soldier gets for being foolish.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Divisional Concert Party
type: Concept
acronym: D.C.P.
definition: An aggregation of would-be actors who inflict their talents on Tommy at half a franc per head.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Defaulter
type: Concept
definition: Not an absconding cashier, but a Tommy who has been sentenced to extra pack drill for breathing while on parade or doing some other little thing like that.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Dekko
type: Concept
definition: To look; a look at something.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Detonator
type: Concept
definition: A contrivance in a bomb containing fulminate of mercury, which, ignited by a fuse, explodes the charge.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Dial
type: Concept
definition: Another term of Tommy's for his map, or face.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Digging in
type: Concept
definition: Digging trenches and dugouts in a captured position.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Digging Party
type: Concept
definition: A detail of men told off to dig trenches, graves, or dugouts. Tommy is not particular as to what he has to dig; it's the actual digging he objects to.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Dinner up
type: Concept
definition: Dinner is ready.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Divisional Band
type: Concept
definition: Another devilish aggregation which wastes moat of its time in practicing and polishing its instruments.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Dixie
type: Concept
definition: An iron pot with two handles on it in which Tommy's meals are cooked. Its real efficiency lies in the fact that when carrying it, your puttees absorb all the black grease on its sides.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Doing them in
type: Concept
definition: Killing them. Cutting up a body of German troops.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Donkey
type: Concept
definition: An army mule. An animal for which Tommy has the greatest respect. He never pets or in any way becomes familiar with said mule.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Draft
type: Concept
definition: A contingent of new men sent as reinforcements for the trenches. Tommy takes special delight in scaring these men with tales of his own experiences which he never had.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Draftman
type: Concept
definition: A member of a draft who listens to and believes Tommy's weird tales of trench warfare.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Dressing Station
type: Concept
definition: A medical post where Tommy gets his wounds attended to, if he is lucky enough to get wounded. He is "lucky," because a wound means Blighty.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Drill order
type: Concept
definition: Rifle, belt, bayonet, and respirator.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Dry Canteen
type: Concept
definition: An army store where Tommy may buy cigarettes, chocolate, and tinned fruit, that is, if he has any money.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Distinguished Service Order
type: Concept
acronym: D.S.O.
definition: Another piece of metal issued to officers for being brave. Tommy says it is mostly won in dugouts and calls it a "Dugout Service Order."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Dubbin
type: Concept
definition: A grease for boots.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Dud
type: Concept
definition: A German shell or bomb which has not exploded on account of a defective fuse. Tommy is a great souvenir collector so he gathers these "duds." Sometimes when he tries to unscrew the nose-cap it sticks. Then in his hurry to confiscate it before an officer appears he doesn't hammer it just right-and the printer of the casualty list has to use a little more type.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Dugout
type: Concept
definition: A deep hole in the trenches dug by the Royal Engineer Corps; supposed to be shell proof. It is, until a shell hits it. Rat and Tommy find it an excellent habitation in which to contract rheumatism.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Dump
type: Concept
definition: An uncovered spot where trench tools and supplies are placed. It is uncovered so that these will become rusty and worthless from the elements. This so that the contractors at home won't starve.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Efficiency Pay
type: Concept
definition: Extra pay allowed by the Government for long service. Tommy is very efficient if he manages to get it from the Government.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Eighteen-Pounder
type: Concept
definition: One of our guns which fires an eighteen pound shell, used for destroying German barbed wire previous to an attack. If it does its duty you bet Tommy is grateful to the eighteen-pounders.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Elephant Dugout
type: Concept
definition: A large, safe, and roomy dugout, braced by heavy steel ribs or girders.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Emplacement
type: Concept
definition: A position made of earth or sandbags from which a machine gun is fired. It is supposed to be invisible to the enemy. They generally blow it up in the course of a couple of days, just by luck, of course.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Entrenching Tool
type: Concept
definition: A spade-like tool for digging hasty entrenchments. It takes about a week to dig a decent hole with it, so "hasty" must have another meaning.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Equipment on
type: Concept
definition: Put on equipment for drill or parade.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Escort
type: Concept
definition: A guard of soldiers who conduct prisoners to different points. Tommy is just as liable to be a prisoner as an escort.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Fag
type: Concept
definition: Cigarette. Something Tommy is always touching you for, "Fag issue." Army issue of cigarettes, generally on Sunday.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Fatigue
type: Concept
definition: Various kinds of work done by Tommy while he is "resting."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Fed up
type: Concept
definition: Disgusted; got enough of it -- as the rich Mr. Hoggenheimer used to say, "Sufficiency."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Field Dressing
type: Concept
definition: Bandages issued to soldiers for first aid when wounded. They use them for handkerchiefs and to clean their rifles.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Field Post Card
type: Concept
definition: A card on which Tommy is allowed to tell his family and friends that he is alive; if he is dead the War Office sends a card, sometimes.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Field Punishment No. I.
type: Concept
definition: Official name for spread-eagling a man on a limber wheel, two hours a day for twenty-one days. His rations consist of bully beef, water, and biscuits. Tommy calls this punishment "Crucifixion," especially if he has undergone it.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Fifteen-pounder
type: Concept
definition: Still another of ours; shell weighs fifteen pounds. Used for killing rats on the German parapets.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Finding the range
type: Concept
definition: Ascertaining by instrument or by trial shots the distance from an enemy objective.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Fireworks
type: Concept
definition: A night bombardment.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Fire Sector
type: Concept
definition: A certain space of ground which a machine gun is supposed to sweep with its fire. If the gun refuses to work, all of the enemy who cross this space are technically dead, according to the General's plans.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Firing Squad
type: Concept
definition: Twelve men picked to shoot a soldier who has been sentenced to death by court-martial. Tommy has no comment to make on this.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Firing Step
type: Concept
definition: A ledge in the front trench which enables Tommy to fire "over the top." In rainy weather you have to be an acrobat to even stand on it on account of the slippery mud.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Fire Trench
type: Concept
definition: The front-line trench. Another name is for Hell.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Five rounds rapid
type: Concept
definition: Generally, just before daylight in the trenches, the order "Five rounds rapid" is given. Each man puts his rifle and head over the parapet and fires five shots as rapidly as possible in the direction of the German trenches and then ducks. A sort of "Good morning, have you used Fears Soap?"
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Five nine
type: Concept
definition: A German shell 5.9 inches in diameter. It is their standard shell. Tommy has no special love for this brand, but they are like olives, all right when you get used to them.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Flags
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's nickname for a Signaler.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Flare
type: Concept
definition: A rocket fired from a pistol which, at night, lights up the ground in front of your trench.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Flare Pistol
type: Concept
definition: A large pistol, which looks like a sawed-off shotgun, from which flares are fired. When you need this pistol badly it has generally been left in your dugout.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Flying Column
type: Concept
definition: A flying column of troops that waits from one point of the line to another. In case of need they usually arrive at the wrong point.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Fokker
type: Concept
definition: A type of German aeroplane which the Boche claims to be the fastest in the world. Tommy believes this, because our airmen seldom catch them.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

For It
type: Concept
definition: On the crime sheet; up against a reprimand; on trial, in trouble.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Four by two
type: Concept
definition: A piece of flannel four Inches by two issued by the Q. M. Sergeant with which to "pull through."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Four point five
type: Concept
definition: Another of ours. The Germans don't like this one.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Four point seven
type: Concept
definition: One of our shells 4.7 inches in diameter. Tommy likes this kind.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Fritz
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's name for a German. He loves a German like poison.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
type: Derogatory
term status: Stable

Front Line
type: Concept
definition: The nearest trench to the enemy. No place for a conscientious objector.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Frostbite
type: Concept
definition: A quick road to Blighty, which Tommy used very often until frostbite became a court-martial offence. Now he keeps his feet warm.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Full pack
type: Concept
definition: A soldier carrying all of his equipment.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Full Corporal
type: Concept
definition: A N.C.O. who sports two stripes on his arm and has more to say than the Colonel.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Fumigator
type: Concept
definition: An infernal device at a hospital which cooks Tommy's uniform and returns it to him two sizes too small.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Funk Hole
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for a dugout. A favorite spot for those of a nervous disposition.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Fuse
type: Concept
definition: A part of shell or bomb which burns in a set time and ignites the detonator.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Gas
type: Concept
definition: Poisonous fumes which the Germans send over to our trenches. When the wind is favorable this gas is discharged into the air from huge cylinders. The wind carries it over toward our lines. It appears like a huge yellowish-green cloud rolling along the ground. The alarm is sounded and Tommy promptly puts on his gas helmet and laughs at the Boches.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Gas Gong
type: Concept
definition: An empty shell case hung up in the trenches and in billets. A sentry is posted near it, so that in case German poison gas comes over, he can give the alarm by striking this gong with an iron bar. If the sentry happens to be asleep we get "gassed."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Gassed
type: Concept
definition: A soldier who has been overcome from the fumes of German poison gas, or the hot air of a comrade.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Gassing
type: Concept
definition: A term Tommy applies to "shooting the bull."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Getting a sub
type: Concept
definition: Touching an officer for money. To be taken out of soldier's pay on the next pay-day.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Getting the sparks
type: Concept
definition: Bullets from a machine gun cutting enemy barbed wire at night; when a bullet strikes wire it generally throws off a bluish spark. Machine gunners use this method at night to "set" their gun so that its fire will command the enemy's trench.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Ginger
type: Concept
definition: Nickname of a red-beaded soldier; courage; pep.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Gippo
type: Concept
definition: Bacon grease; soup.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Garrison Military Police
type: Concept
acronym: G.M.P.
definition: Soldiers detailed to patrol the roads and regulate traffic behind the lines. Tommy's pet aversion.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

General Officer Commanding
type: Concept
acronym: G.O.C.
definition: Tommy never sees him in the act of "commanding," but has the opportunity of reading many an order signed "G.O.C."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Goggles
type: Concept
definition: An apparatus made of canvas and mica which is worn over the eyes for protection from the gases of German "tear shells." The only time Tommy cries is when he forgets his goggles or misses the mm issue.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Going in
type: Concept
definition: Taking over trenches.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Going out
type: Concept
definition: Relieved from the trenches.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Gone West
type: Concept
definition: Killed; died.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Gooseberries
type: Concept
definition: A wooden frame in the shape of a cask wrapped round with barbed wire. These gooseberries are thrown into the barbed-wire entanglements to help make them impassable.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Got the Crown
type: Concept
definition: Promoted to Sergeant-Major.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Green Envelope
type: Concept
definition: An envelope of a green color issued to Tommy once a week. The contents will not be censored regimentally, but are liable to censor at the base. On the outside of envelope appears the following certificate, which Tommy must sign: "I certify on my honor that the contents of this envelope refer to nothing but private and family matters." After signing this certificate Tommy immediately writes about everything but family and private matters.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Groom
type: Concept
definition: A soldier who looks after an officer's horse and who robs said horse of its hay. He makes his own bed comfortable with this hay.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Grousing
type: Concept
definition: A scientific grumbling in which Tommy cusses everything in general and offends no one.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Gunshot wound
type: Concept
acronym: G.S.W.
definition: When Tommy is wounded he does not care whether it is a G.S.W. or a kick from a mule, just so he gets back to Blighty.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

G.S. Wagon
type: Concept
definition: A four-wheeled wagon driven by an A.S.C. driver. It carries supplies, such as food, ammunition, trench tools, and timber tor dugouts. When Tommy gets sore feet he is allowed to ride on this wagon and fills the ears of the driver with tales of his wonderful exploits. Occasionally one of these drivers believes him.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Gum Boots
type: Concept
definition: Rubber boots issued to Tommy for wet trenches. They are used to keep his feet dry; they do, when he is lucky enough to get a pair.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Gumming the game
type: Concept
definition: Spoiling anything, interfering.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Hair brush
type: Concept
definition: Name of a bomb used in the earlier stages of the war. It is shaped like a hair brush and is thrown by the handle. Tommy used to throw them over to the Germans for their morning toilette.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Hand grenade
type: Concept
definition: A general term for a bomb which is thrown by hand. Tommy looks upon all bombs with grave suspicion; from long experience he has learned not to trust them, even if the detonator has been removed.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Hard tails
type: Concept
definition: Mules.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Haversack
type: Concept
definition: A canvas bag forming part of Tommy's equipment, carried on the left side. Its original use was intended for the carrying of emergency rations and small kit. It is generally filled with a miscellaneous assortment of tobacco, pipes, bread crumbs, letters, and a lot of useless souvenirs.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Having a doss
type: Concept
definition: Having a sleep.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Hold-all
type: Concept
definition: A small canvas roll in which you are supposed to carry your razor, comb, knife, fork, spoon, mirror, soap, tooth brush, etc. Tommy takes great care of the above, because it means extra pack drill to come on parade unshaven.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Holy Joe
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's familiar but not necessarily irreverent same for the Chaplain. He really has a great admiration for this officer, who although not a fighting man, so often risks his life to save a wounded Tommy.
type: Nickname
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Housewife
type: Concept
definition: A neat little package of needles, thread, extra shoelaces, and buttons. When a button comes off Tommy's trousers, instead of going to his housewife he looks around for a nail.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Hun
type: Concept
definition: Another term for a German, mostly used by war correspondents.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Hun pinching
type: Concept
definition: Raiding German trenches for prisoners.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Identification Disk
type: Concept
definition: A little fiber disk which is worn around the neck by means of a string. On one side is stamped your name, rank, regimental number, and regiment, while on the other side is stamped your religion. If at any time Tommy is doubtful of his identity he looks at his disk to reassure himself.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

I'm sorry
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's apology. If he pokes your eye out with his bayonet he says, "I'm sorry," and the matter is ended so far as he is concerned.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

In front
type: Concept
definition: Over the top; in front of the front-line trench, in No Man's Land.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

In reserve
type: Concept
definition: Troops occupying positions, billets, or dugouts, immediately in rear of the front line, who in case of an attack will support the firing line.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Intelligence Department
type: Concept
definition: Secret service men who are supposed to catch spies or be spies as the occasion demands.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Interpreter
type: Concept
definition: A fat job with a "return ticket," held by a soldier who thinks he can speak a couple of languages. He questions prisoners as to the color of their grandmothers' eyes and why they joined the army. Just imagine asking a German "why" he joined the army.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Invalided
type: Concept
definition: Sent to England on account of sickness.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Iron Rations
type: Concept
definition: A tin of bully beef, two biscuits, and a tin containing tea, sugar, and Oxo cubes. These are not supposed to be eaten until you die of starvation.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Isolated Post
type: Concept
definition: An advanced part of a trench or position where one or two sentries are posted to guard against a surprise attack. While in this post Tommy is constantly wondering what the Germans will do with his body.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

It's good we have a Navy
type: Concept
definition: One of Tommy's expressions when he is disgusted with the army and its work.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Jack Johnson
type: Concept
definition: A seventeen-inch German shell. Probably called "Jack Johnson" because the Germans thought that with it they could lick the world.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Jackknife
type: Concept
definition: A knife, issued to Tommy, which weighs a stone and won't cut. Its only virtue is the fact that it has a tin-opener attachment which won't open tins.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Jam
type: Concept
definition: A horrible mess of fruit and sugar which Tommy spreads on his bread. It all tastes the same no matter whether labelled "Strawberry " or "Green Gage."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Jam Tin
type: Concept
definition: A crude sort of hand grenade which, in the early stages of the war. Tommy used to manufacture out of jam tins, ammonal, and mud. The manufacturer generally would receive a little wooden cross in recognition of the fact that he died for King and Country.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Jock
type: Concept
definition: Universal name for a Scotchman.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Kicked the bucket
type: Concept
definition: Died.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Kilo
type: Concept
definition: Five eighths of a mile. Ten "kilos" generally means a trek of fifteen miles.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

King's Shilling
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's rate of pay per day, perhaps.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Taking the King's Shilling
type: Concept
definition: Means enlisting.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Kip
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for "sleep." He also calls his bed his "kip." It is on guard that Tommy most desires to kip.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Kit Bag
type: Concept
definition: A part of Tommy's equipment in which he is supposed to pack up his troubles and smile, according to the words of a popular song (the composer was never in a trench).
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Kitchener's Army
type: Concept
definition: The volunteer army raised by Lord Kitchener, the members of which signed for duration of war. They are commonly called the "New Army" or "Kitchener's Mob." At first the Regulars and Territorials looked down on them, but now accept them as welcome mates.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Labor Battalion
type: Concept
definition: An organization which is "too proud to fight." They would sooner use a pick and shovel.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Lance-corporal
type: Concept
definition: A N.C.O. one grade above a private who wears a shoestring stripe on his arm and thinks the war should be run according to his ideas.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

lead
type: Concept
definition: The leading pair of horses or mules on a limber. Their only fault is that they won't lead (if they happen to be mules).
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Leave Train
type: Concept
definition: The train which takes Tommy to one of the seaports on the Channel en route to Blighty when granted leave. The worst part of going on leave is coming back.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Lee Enfield
type: Concept
definition: Name of the rifle used by the British Army. Its caliber is .303 and the magazine holds ten rounds. When dirty it has a tasty habit of getting Tommy's name on the crime sheet.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Legging it
type: Concept
definition: Running away.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Lewis Gun
type: Concept
definition: A rifle-like machine gun, air cooled, which only carries 47 rounds in its "pie-plate" magazine. Under fire when this magazine is emptied you shout for "ammo" but perhaps No. 2, the ammo carrier, is lying in the rear with a bullet through his napper. Then it's "napoo-fini" (Tommy's French) for Mr. Lewis.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Light Duty
type: Concept
definition: What the doctor marks on the sick report opposite a Tommy's name when he has doubts as to whether said Tommy is putting one over on him. Usually Tommy is.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Light Railway
type: Concept
definition: Two thin iron tracks on which small flat cars full of ammunition and supplies are pushed. These railways afford Tommy great sport in the loading, pushing, and unloading of cars.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Limber
type: Concept
definition: A match box on two wheels which gives the Army mule a job. It also carries officer's packs.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Liquid Fire
type: Concept
definition: Another striking example of German "Kultur." According to the Germans it is supposed to annihilate whole brigades, but Tommy refuses to be annihilated.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Listening Post
type: Concept
definition: Two or three men detailed to go out "in front" at night, to lie on the ground and listen for any undue activity in the German lines. They also listen for the digging of mines. It is nervous work and when Tommy returns he generally writes for a bos of "Phosperine Tablets," a widely advertised nerve tonic.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Little Willie
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's nickname for the German Crown. Prince. They are not on speaking terms.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Nickname
term status: Stable

Lloyd George's Pets
type: Concept
definition: Munition workers in England.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Lonely Soldier
type: Concept
definition: A soldier who advertises himself as "lonely" through the medium of some English newspaper. If he is clever and diplomatic by this method he generally receives two or three parcels a week, but he must be careful not to write to two girls living on the same block or his parcel post mail will diminish.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Lonely Stab
type: Concept
definition: A girl who writes and sends parcels to Tommy. She got his name from the "Lonely Soldier Column" of some newspaper.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Loophole
type: Concept
definition: A disguised aperture in a trench through which to "snipe" at Germans.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Lyddite
type: Concept
definition: A high explosive used in shells. Has a habit of scattering bits of anatomy over the landscape.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Machine Gun Corps
type: Concept
acronym: M.G.C.
definition: A collection of machine gunners who think they are the deciding factor of the war, and that artillery is unnecessary.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Machine Gunner
type: Concept
acronym: M.G.
definition: A man who, like an American policeman, is never there when he is badly wanted.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Maconochie
type: Concept
definition: A ration of meat, vegetables, and soapy water, contained in a tin. Mr. Maconochie, the chemist who compounded this mess, intends to commit "hari kari" before the boys return from the front. He is wise.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Mad Minute
type: Concept
definition: Firing fifteen rounds from your rifle in sixty seconds. A man is mad to attempt it, especially with a stiff bolt.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mail Bag
type: Concept
definition: A canvas bag which is used to bring the other fellow's mail around.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Major
type: Concept
definition: An officer in a Battalion who wears a crown on his uniform, is in command of two companies, and corrects said companies in the second position of "present arms." He also resides in a dugout.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Maneuvers
type: Concept
definition: Useless evolutions of troops conceived by someone higher up to show Tommy how brave his officers are and how battles should be fought. The enemy never attend these maneuvers to prove they're right.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mass Formation
type: Concept
definition: A dose order formation in which the Germans attack. It gives them a sort of "Come on, I'm with you" feeling. They would "hold hands" only for the fact that they have to carry their rifles. Tommy takes great delight in "busting up" these gatherings.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mate
type: Concept
definition: A soldier with whom Tommy is especially "chummy." Generally picked because this soldier receives a parcel from home every week.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Maxim
type: Concept
definition: Type of machine gun which has been supplanted by the Vickers in order to make Tommy unlearn what he has been taught about the Maxim.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mechanical Transport
type: Concept
acronym: M.T.
definition: The members of which are ex-taxi drivers. No wonder Tommy's rations melt away when the M. T. carries them.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Medical Officer
type: Concept
acronym: M.O.
definition: A doctor specially detailed to tell Tommy that he is not sick.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Medicine and Duty
type: Concept
acronym: M. and D.
definition: What the doctor marks on the "sicker" or side report when he thinks Tommy is faking sickness. It means medicine and duty.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mentioned in Despatches
type: Concept
definition: Recommended for bravery. Tommy would sooner be recommended for leave.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mercy Kamerad
type: Concept
definition: What Fritz says when he has had a bellyful of fighting and wants to surrender. Of late this has been quite a popular phrase with him, replacing the Hymn of Hate.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Mess Orderly
type: Concept
definition: A soldier detailed daily to carry Tommy's meals to and from the cook-house.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mess Tin
type: Concept
definition: An article of equipment used as a tea-kettle and dinner-set.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mike and George
type: Concept
acronym: K. C. M. G.
definition: Knight Commander of the Order of St. Michael and St. George. An award for bravery in the field.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Military Cross
type: Concept
definition: A badge of honor dished out to officers for bravery. Tommy insists they throw dice to see which is the bravest. The winner gets the medal.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Military Medal
type: Concept
definition: A piece of Junk issued to Tommy who has done something that is not exactly brave but still is not cowardly. When it is presented he takes it and goes back wondering why the Army picks on him.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Military Police
type: Concept
acronym: M.P.
definition: Soldiers with whom it is unsafe to argue.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mills
type: Concept
definition: Name of a bomb invented by Mills. The only bomb in which Tommy has full confidence, -- and he mistrusts even that.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mine
type: Concept
definition: An underground tunnel dug by sappers of the Royal Engineer Corps. This tunnel leads from your trench to that of the enemy's. At the end or head of the tunnel a great quantity of explosives are stored which at a given time are exploded. It is Tommy's job to then go "over the top" and occupy the crater caused by the explosion.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mine Shaft
type: Concept
definition: A shaft leading down to the "gallery" or tunnel of a mine. Sometimes Tommy, as a reward, is given the Job of helping the R. E.'s dig this shaft.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Minnenwerfer
type: Concept
definition: A high-power trench mortar shell of the Germans, which makes no noise coming through the air. It was invented by Professor Kultur. Tommy does not know what is near until it bites him; after that nothing worries him. Tommy nicknames them "Minnies."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Mouth Organ
type: Concept
definition: An instrument with which a vindictive Tommy causes misery to the rest of his platoon. Some authorities define it as a "musical instrument."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mud
type: Concept
definition: A brownish, sticky substance found in the trenches after the frequent rains. A true friend to Tommy, which sticks to him like glue, even though at times Tommy resents this affection and roundly curses said mud.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Mufti
type: Concept
definition: The term Tommy gives to civilian clothes. Mufti looks good to him now.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Nap
type: Concept
definition: A card game of Tommy's in which the one who stays awake the longest grabs the pot. If all the players fall asleep, the pot goes to the "Wounded Soldiers' Fund."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Napoo-Fini
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's French for gone, through with, finished, disappeared.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Napper
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for bead.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Neutral
type: Concept
definition: Tommy says it means "afraid to fight."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Next of Kin
type: Concept
definition: Nearest relative. A young and ambitious platoon officer bothers his men two or three times a month taking a record of their "next of kin," because he thinks that Tommy's grandmother may have changed to his uncle.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Night ops
type: Concept
definition: Slang for night operations or maneuvers.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Nine-point-two
type: Concept
definition: A howitzer which fires a shell 9.2 inches in diameter, and knocks the tiles off the roof of Tommy's billet through the force of its concussion.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

No Man's Land
type: Concept
definition: The space between the hostile trenches called "No Man's Land" because no one owns it and no one wants to. In France you could not give it away.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Non-Combatant Corps
type: Concept
acronym: N.C.C.
definition: Men who joined the Army under the stipulation that the only thing they would fight for would be their meals. They have no "King and Country."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Non-commissioned officer
type: Concept
acronym: N.C.O.
definition: A person hated more than the Germans. Tommy says his stripes are issued out with the rations, and he ought to know.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

No. 9.
type: Concept
definition: A pill the doctor gives you if you are suffering with corns or barber's itch or any disease at all. If none are in stock, he gives you a No. 6 and No. 3, or a No. 5 and No. 4, anything to make nine.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Nosecap
type: Concept
definition: That part of a shell which unscrews and contains the device and scale for setting the time fuse. Some Tommies are ardent souvenir hunters. As soon as a shell bursts in the ground you will see them out with picks and shovels digging in the shell hole for the nose cap. If the shell bursts too near them they don't dig.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Observation Balloon
type: Concept
definition: A captive balloon behind the lines which observes the enemy. The enemy doesn't mind being observed, so takes no notice of it. It gives someone a job hauling it down at night, so it has one good point.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Observation Post
type: Concept
definition: A position in the front line where an artillery officer observes the fire of our guns. He keeps on observing until a German shell observes him. After this there is generally a new officer and a new observation post.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Officer commanding.
type: Concept
acronym: O.C.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Officers' Mess
type: Concept
definition: Where the officers eat the mess that the O. S. have cooked.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Officers' servants
type: Concept
acronym: O.S.
definition: The lowest ranking private in the Army, who feeds better than the officers he waits on.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Oil Cans
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for a German trench mortar shell, which is an old tin filled with explosive and junk that the Boches have no further use for.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

One up
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for a lance-corporal who wears one stripe. The private always wonders why he was overlooked when promotions were in order.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

On the mat
type: Concept
definition: When Tommy is haled before his commanding officer to explain why he has broken one of the seven million King's regulations for the government of the Army. His "explanation" never gets him anywhere unless it is on the wheel of a Umber.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

On your own
type: Concept
definition: Another famous or infamous phrase which means Tommy is allowed to do as he pleases. An officer generally puts Tommy "on his own" when he gets Tommy into a dangerous position and sees no way to extricate him.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Orderly-Corporal
type: Concept
definition: A non-commissioned officer who takes the names of the sick every morning and who keeps his own candle burning after he has ordered "Lights out" at night.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Orderly-Officer
type: Concept
definition: An officer who, for a week, goes around and asks if there are "any complaints" and gives the name of the complaining soldier to the Orderly-Sergeant for extra pack drill.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Orderly Room
type: Concept
definition: The Captain's office where everything is disorderly.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Orderly-Sergeant
type: Concept
definition: A sergeant who, for a week, is supposed to do the work of the Orderly-Officer.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Out of bounds
type: Concept
definition: The official Army term meaning that Tommy is not allowed to trespass where this sign is displayed. He never wished to until the sign made its appearance.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Out there
type: Concept
definition: A term used in Blighty which means "in France." Conscientious objectors object to going "out there."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Over the Top
type: Concept
definition: A famous phrase of the trenches. It is generally the order for the men to charge the German lines. Nearly always it is accompanied by the Jonah wish, "With the best o' luck and give them hell."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Oxo
type: Concept
definition: Concentrated beef cubes that a fond mother sends out to Tommy because they are advertised as "British to the Backbone."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Packing
type: Concept
definition: Asbestos wrapping around the barrel of a machine gun to keep the water from leaking out of the barrel casing. Also slang for rations.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Pack Drill
type: Concept
definition: Punishment for a misdemeanor. Sometimes Tommy gets caught when he fills his pack with straw to lighten it for this drill.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Parados
type: Concept
definition: The rear wall of a trench which the Germans continually fill with bits of shell and rifle bullets. Tommy doesn't mind how many they put in the parados.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Parapet
type: Concept
definition: The top part of a front trench which Tommy constantly builds up and the Germans just as constantly knock down.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Patrol
type: Concept
definition: A few soldiers detailed to go out in "No Man's Land," at night and return without any information. Usually these patrols are successful.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Pay Book
type: Concept
definition: A little book in which is entered the amount of pay Tommy draws. In the back of same there is also a space for his "will and last testament"; this to remind Tommy that he is liable to be killed. (As if he needed any reminder.)
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Pay Parade
type: Concept
definition: A formation at which Tommy lines up for pay. When his turn comes the paying-officer asks, "How much?" and Tommy answers, "Fifteen francs, sir." He gets five.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Periscope
type: Concept
definition: A thing in the trenches which you look through. After looking through it, you look over the top to really see something.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Physical torture
type: Concept
definition: The nickname for physical training. It is torture, especially to a recruit.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Pick
type: Concept
definition: A tool shaped like an anchor which is being constantly handed to Tommy with the terse command, "get busy."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Pioneer
type: Concept
definition: A soldier detailed in each company to keep the space around the billets clean. He sleeps all day and only gets busy when an officer comes round. He also sleeps at night.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Pip squeak
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for a small German shell which makes a "pip" and then a "squeak," when it comes over.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Pontoon
type: Concept
definition: A card game, in America known as "Black Jack" or "Twenty One." The banker is the only winner.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Provost-Sergeant
type: Concept
definition: A sergeant detailed to oversee prisoners, their work, etc. Each prisoner solemnly swears that when he gets out of "dink" he is going to shoot this sergeant and when he does get out he buys him a drink.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Pull Through
type: Concept
definition: A stout cord with a weight on one end, and a loop on the other for an oily rag. The weighted end is dropped through the bore of the rifle and the rag on the other end is "pulled through."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Pump
type: Concept
definition: A useless contrivance for emptying the trenches of water. "Useless" because the trenches refuse to be emptied.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Pushing up the Daisies
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for a soldier who has been killed and buried in France.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Queer
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for being sick. The doctor immediately informs him that there is nothing queer about him, and Tommy doesn't know whether to feel insulted or complimented.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Quid
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for a pound or twenty shillings (about $4.80). He is not on very good terms with this amount as you never see the two together.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Quartermaster-Sergeant
type: Concept
acronym: Q. M. Sergeant
definition: Quartermaster-Sergeant, or "Quarter" as he is called. A non-commissioned officer in a company who wears three stripes and a crown, and takes charge of the company stores, with the emphasis on the "takes." In civil life he was a politician or burglar.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Range Finder
type: Concept
definition: An instrument for ascertaining the distance between two objects, using the instrument as one object. It is very accurate only you get a different result each time you use it, says Tommy.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Rapid Fire
type: Concept
definition: Means to stick year head "over the top" at night, aim at the moon, and empty your magazine. It there is no moon, aim at the spot where it should be.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Ration Bag
type: Concept
definition: A small, very small bag for carrying rations. Sometimes it is really useful for lugging souvenirs.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Rations
type: Concept
definition: Various kinds of tasteless food issued by the Government to Tommy, to kid him into thinking that he is living in luxury, while the Germans are starving.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Ration Party
type: Concept
definition: Men detailed to carry rations to the front line; pick out a black, cold, and rainy night; put a fifty-pound box on your shoulder; sling your rifle and carry one hundred twenty rounds of ammunition. Then go through a communication trench, with the mud up to your knees, down this trench for a half-mile, and then find your mates swearing in seven different languages; duck a few shells and bullets, and then ask Tommy for his definition of a "ration party." You will be surprised to learn that it is the same as yours.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Rats
type: Concept
definition: The main inhabitants of the trenches and dugouts. Very useful for chewing up leather equipment and running over your face when asleep. A British rat resembles a bull-dog, while a German one, through a course of Kultur, resembles a dachshund.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Red Cap
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's nickname for a Staff Officer because he wears a red band around his cap.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Red Tape
type: Concept
definition: A useless sort of procedure. The main object of this is to prolong the war and give a lot of fat jobs to Army politicians.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Regimental Number
type: Concept
definition: Each soldier has a number whether or not he was a convict in civil life. Tommy never forgets his number when he sees it on "orders for leave."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Regimental Police
type: Concept
acronym: R.P.
definition: Men detailed in a Battalion to annoy Tommy and to prevent him from doing what he most desires.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Reinforcements
type: Concept
definition: A lot of new men sent out from England who think that the war will be over a week after they enter the trenches.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Relaying
type: Concept
definition: A term used by the artillery. After a gun is fired it is "relayed " or aimed at something out of sight.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Respirator
type: Concept
definition: A cloth helmet, chemically treated, with glass eye-holes, which Tommy puts over his head as a protection against, poison gas. This helmet never leaves Tommy's person, he even sleeps with it.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Rest
type: Concept
definition: A period of time for rest allotted to Tommy upon being relieved from the trenches. He uses this "rest" to mend roads, dig trenches, and make himself generally useful while behind the lines.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Rest Billets
type: Concept
definition: Shell shattered houses, generally barns, in which Tommy "rests," when relieved from the firing line.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Ricco
type: Concept
definition: Term for a ricochet bullet. It makes a whining noise and Tommy always ducks when a "ricco" passes him.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Rifle
type: Concept
definition: A part of Tommy's armament. Its main use is to be cleaned. Sometimes it is fired, when you are not using a pick or shovel. You also "present arms by numbers" with it. This is a very fascinating exercise to Tommy. Ask him.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Rifle Grenade
type: Concept
definition: A bomb on the end of a rod. This rod is inserted into the barrel of a specially designed rifle.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Requiscat in pace
type: Concept
acronym: R.I.P.
definition: In monk's highbrow, "Requiscat in pace," put on little wooden crosses over soldier's graves. It means "Rest in peace," but Tommy says like as not it means "Rest in pieces," especially if the man under the cross has been sent West by a bomb or shell explosion.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Road Dangerous, Use Trench
type: Concept
definition: A familiar sign on roads immediately in rear of the firing line. It is to warn soldiers that it is within sight of Fritz. Tommy never believes these signs and swanks up the road. Later on he tells the Red Cross nurse that the sign told the truth.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Roll of Honor
type: Concept
definition: The name given to the published casualty lists of the war. Tommy has no ambition for his name to appear on the "Roll of Honor" unless it comes under the heading "Slightly Wounded."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Roman Catholic
type: Concept
acronym: R.C.
definition: One of the advantages of being a R.C. is that "Church Parade" is not compulsory.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Rooty
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's nickname for bread.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Route March
type: Concept
definition: A useless expenditure of leather and energy. These marches teach Tommy to be kind to overloaded beasts of burden.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Royal Army Medical Corps
type: Concept
acronym: R.A.M.C.
definition: Tommy says it means "Rob All My Comrades."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Royal Engineers
type: Concept
acronym: R.E.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Royal Field Artillery
type: Concept
acronym: R.F.A.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Royal Plying Corps
type: Concept
acronym: R.F.C.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Rum
type: Concept
definition: A nectar of the gods issued in the early morning to Tommy.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Rum issue
type: Concept
definition: A daily formation at which Tommy receives a spoonful of rum; that is if any is left over from the Sergeant's Mess.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Runner
type: Concept
definition: A soldier who is detailed or picked as an orderly for an officer while in the trenches. His real job is to take messages under fire, asking how many tins of jam are required for 1917.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Small Arms Ammunition
type: Concept
acronym: S.A.A.
definition: Small steel pellets which have a bad habit of drilling holes in the anatomy of Tommy and Fritz.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Salvo
type: Concept
definition: Battery firing four guns simultaneously.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Sandbag
type: Concept
definition: A jute bag which is constantly being filled with earth. Its main uses are to provide Tommy with material for a comfortable kip and to strengthen parapets.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Sap
type: Concept
definition: A small ditch, or trench, dug from the front line and leading out into "No Man's Land " in the direction of the German trenches.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Sapper
type: Concept
definition: A man who saps or digs mines. He thinks he is thirty-three degrees above an ordinary soldier, while in fact he is generally beneath him.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Stretcher Bearer
type: Concept
acronym: S.B.
definition: The motive power of a stretcher. He is generally looking the other way when a fourteen-stone Tommy gets hit.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Scaling ladder
type: Concept
definition: Small wooden ladders used by Tommy for climbing out of the front trench when he goes "over the top." When Tommy sees these ladders being brought into the trench, he sits down and writes his will in his little pay-book.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Sentry Go
type: Concept
definition: Time on guard. It means "sentry come."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Sergeant's Mess
type: Concept
definition: Where the sergeants eat. Nearly all of the rum has a habit of disappearing into the Sergeant's Mess.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Seventy-fives
type: Concept
definition: A very efficient field-gun of the French, which can fire thirty shells per minute. The gun needs no relaying due to the recoil which throws the him back to its original position. The gun that knocked out "Jack Johnson," therefore called "Jess Willard."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Sewed in a blanket
type: Concept
definition: Term for a soldier who has been buried. His remains are generally sewn in a blanket and the piece of blanket is generally deducted from his pay that is due.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Shag
type: Concept
definition: Cigarette tobacco which an American can never learn to use. Even the mules object to the smell of it.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable
type: Slang

Shell
type: Concept
definition: A device of the artillery which sometimes makes Tommy wish he had been born in a neutral country.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Shell Hole
type: Concept
definition: A hole in the ground caused by the explosion of a shell. Tommy's favorite resting-place while under fire.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Shovel
type: Concept
definition: A tool closely related to the pick family. In France the "shovel" is mightier than the sword.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Shrapnel
type: Concept
definition: A shell which bursts in the air and scatters small pieces of metal over a large area. It is used to test the resisting power of steel helmets.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Sicker
type: Concept
definition: Nickname for the sick report book. It is Tommy's ambition to get on this "sicker" without feeling sick.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Side Parade
type: Concept
definition: A formation at which the doctor informs sick, or would-be sick Tommies that they are not sick.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Sixty-pounder
type: Concept
definition: One of our shells which weighs sixty pounds (officially). When Tommy handles them, their unofficial weight is three hundred weight.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Slacker
type: Concept
definition: An insect in England who is afraid to join the Army. There are three things in this world that Tommy hates: a slacker, a German; and a trench-rat; it's hard to tell which he hates worst.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
type: Derogatory
term status: Stable

Slag Heap
type: Concept
definition: A pile of rubbish, tin cans, etc.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Smoke Bomb
type: Concept
definition: A shell which, in exploding, emits a dense white smoke, hiding the operations of troops. When Tommy, in attacking a trench, gets into this smoke, he imagines himself a magnet and thinks all the machine guns and rifles are firing at him alone.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Sniper
type: Concept
definition: A good shot whose main occupation is picking off unwary individuals of the enemy. In the long run a sniper usually gets "sniped."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Snipe Hole
type: Concept
definition: A hole in a steel plate through which snipers "snipe." It is not fair for the enemy to shoot at these holes, but they do, and often hit them, or at least the man behind them.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Soldiers' Friend
type: Concept
definition: Metal polish costing three ha' pence which Tommy uses to polish his buttons. Tommy wonders why it is called "Soldiers' Friend."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Somewhere in France
type: Concept
definition: A certain spot in France where Tommy has to live in mud, hunt for "cooties," and duck shells and bullets. Tommy's official address.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Spy
type: Concept
definition: A suspicious person whom no one suspects until he is caught. Then all say they knew he was a spy but had no chance to report it to the proper authorities.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Spud
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's name for the solitary potato which gets into the stew. It's a great mystery how that lonely little spud got into such bad company.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Stand To
type: Concept
definition: Order to mount the fire step. Given just as it begins to grow dark.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Stand Down
type: Concept
definition: Order given in the trenches at break of dawn to let the men know their night watch is ended. It has a pleasant sound in Tommy's ears.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Steel Helmet
type: Concept
definition: A round hat made out of steel which is supposed to be shrapnel proof. It is until a piece of shell goes through it, then Tommy loses interest as to whether it is shrapnel proof or not. He calls it a "tin hat."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Stew
type: Concept
definition: A concoction of the cook's which contains bully beef, Maconochie rations, water, a few lumps of fresh meat, and a potato. Occasionally a little salt falls into it by mistake. Tommy is supposed to eat this mess -- he does -- worse luck!
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Strafeing
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's chief sport -- shelling the Germans. Taken from Fritz's own dictionary.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Stretcher
type: Concept
definition: A contrivance on which dead and wounded are carried. The only time Tommy gets a free ride in the trenches is while on a stretcher. As a rule he does not appreciate this means of transportation.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Suicide Club
type: Concept
definition: Nickname for bombers and machine gunners. (No misnomer.)
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Supper
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's fourth meal, generally eaten just before "lights out." It is composed of the remains of the day's rations. There are a lot of Tommies who never eat supper. There is a reason.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Shell wound
type: Concept
acronym: S.W.
definition: What the doctor marks on your hospital chart when a shell has removed your leg.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Swamping
type: Concept
definition: Putting on airs; showing off. Generally accredited to Yankees.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Swinging the lead
type: Concept
definition: Throwing the bull.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Sweating on leave
type: Concept
definition: Impatiently waiting for your name to appear in orders for leave. If Tommy sweats very long he generally catches cold and when leave comes he is too sick to go.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Taking over
type: Concept
definition: Going into a trench. Tommy "takes over," is "taken out" and sometimes is "put under."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Taube
type: Concept
definition: A type of German aeroplane whose special ambition is beating the altitude record. It occasionally loses its way and flies over the British lines and then stops flying.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Tea
type: Concept
definition: A dark brown drug, which Tommy has to have at certain periods of the day. Battles have been known to have been stopped to enable Tommy to get his tea, or "char" as it is commonly called.
type: Slang
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Tear Shell
type: Concept
definition: Trench name for the German lachrymose chemical shell which makes the eyes smart. The only time Tommy is outwardly sentimental.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Telephone
type: Concept
definition: A little instrument with a wire attached to it. An artillery observer whispers something into this instrument and immediately one of your batteries behind the line opens up and drops a few shells into your front trench. This keeps up until the observer whispers, "Your range is too short." Then the shells drop nearer the German lines.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Terrier
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's nickname for a Territorial or "Saturday-night soldier." A regular despises a Territorial while a Territorial looks down on "Kitchener's Mob." Kitchener's Mob has the utmost contempt for both of them.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Territorial
type: Concept
definition: A peace-time soldier with the same status as the American militiaman. Before the war they were called "Saturday-Night Soldiers," but they soon proved themselves "every-night soldiers."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

The Old Man
type: Concept
definition: Captain of a company. He is called "the old man," because generally his age is about twenty-eight.
type: Slang
type: Nickname
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

The Best o' Luck
type: Concept
type: Slang
definition: The Jonah phrase of the trenches. Every time Tommy goes over the top or on a trench raid his mates wish him the best o' luck. It means that if you are lucky enough to come back, you generally have an arm or leg missing.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Thumbs up
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's expression which means "everything is fine with me." Very seldom used during an intense bombardment.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Time ex
type: Concept
definition: Expiration of term of enlistment. The only time Tommy is a civilian in the trenches; but about ten minutes after he is a soldier for duration of war.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Tin Hat
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's name for his steel helmet which is made out of a metal about as hard as mush. The only advantage is that it is heavy and greatly adds to the weight of Tommy's equipment. Its most popular use is for carrying eggs.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Trinitrotoluene
type: Concept
acronym: T.N.T.
definition: A high explosive which the Army Ordnance Corps prescribes for Fritz. Fritz prefers a No. 9 pill.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Tommy Atkins
type: Concept
definition: The name England gives to an English soldier, even if his name is Willie Jones.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Nickname
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Tommy's Cooker
type: Concept
type: Slang
definition: A spirit stove widely advertised as "A suitable gift to the men in the trenches." Many are sent out to Tommy and most of them are thrown away.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Tonite
type: Concept
definition: The explosive contained in a rifle grenade. It looks like a harmless reel of cotton before it explodes, -- after it explodes the spectator is missing.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Toots Sweet
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's Preach for "hurry up," "look smart." Generally used in a French estaminet when Tommy only has a couple of minutes in which to drink his beer.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Top Hats at Home
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's name for Parliament when his application for leave has been turned down or when no strawberry jam arrives with the rations.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Town Major
type: Concept
definition: An officer stationed in a. French town or village who is supposed to look after billets, upkeep of roads, and act as interpreter.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Transport
type: Concept
definition: An aggregation of mules, limbers, and rough riders, whose duty is to keep the men in the trenches supplied with rations and supplies. Sometimes a shell drops within two miles of them and Tommy doesn't get his rations, etc.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Traverse
type: Concept
definition: Sandbags piled in a trench so that the trench cannot be traversed by Tommy. Sometimes it prevents enfilading fire by the enemy.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Trench
type: Concept
definition: A ditch full of water, rats, and soldiers. During his visit to France, Tommy uses these ditches as residences. Now and again he sticks his head "over the top" to take a look at the surrounding scenery. If he is lucky he lives to tell his mates what he saw.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Trench Feet
type: Concept
definition: A disease of the feet contracted in the trenches from exposure to extreme cold and wet. Tommy's greatest ambition is to contract this disease because it means "Blighty" for him.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Trench Fever
type: Concept
definition: A malady contracted in the trenches; the symptoms are high temperature, bodily pains, and homesickness. Mostly homesickness. A bad case lands Tommy in "Blighty," a slight case lands him back in the trenches, where he tries to get it worse than ever.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Trenchitis
type: Concept
definition: A combination of "fedupness" and homesickness, experienced by Tommy in the trenches, especially when he receives a letter from a friend in Blighty who is making a fortune working in a munition plant.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Trench Mortar
type: Concept
definition: A gun like a stove pipe which throws shells at the German trenches. Tommy detests these mortars because when they take positions near to him in the trenches, he knows that it is only a matter of minutes before a German Shell with his name and number on it will be knocking at his door.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Trench Pudding
type: Concept
definition: A delectable mess of broken biscuits, condensed milk, jam, and mud. Slightly flavored with smoke. Tommy prepares, cooks, and eats this. Next day he has "trench fever."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Trench Raid
type: Concept
definition: Several men detailed to go over the top at night and shake hands with the Germans, and, if possible, persuade some of them to be prisoners. At times the raiders would themselves get raided because Fritz refused to shake and adopted nasty methods.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Turpenite
type: Concept
definition: A deadly chemical shell invented by an enthusiastic war correspondent suffering from brain storm. Companies and batteries were supposed to die standing up from its effects, but they refused to do this.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Twelve in one
type: Concept
definition: Means that twelve men are to share one loaf of bread. When the slicing takes place the war in the dugout makes the European argument look like thirty cents.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Up against the wall
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's term for a man who is to be shot by a firing squad.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Up the line
type: Concept
definition: Term generally used in rest billets when Tommy talks about the fire trench or fighting line. When orders are issued to go "up the line" Tommy immediately goes "up in the air."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Victoria Cross
type: Concept
acronym: V.C.
definition: Victoria Cross, or "Very careless" as Tommy calls it. It is a bronze medal won by Tommy for being very careless with his life.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Vickers Gun
type: Concept
definition: A machine gun improved on by a fellow named Vickers. His intentions were good but his improvements, according to Tommy, were "rotten."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Waders
type: Concept
definition: Rubber hip boots, used when the water in the trenches is up to Tommy's neck.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Waiting Man
type: Concept
definition: The cleanest man at guard mounting. He does not have to walk post; is supposed to wait on the guard.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Washout
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's idea of something that is worth nothing.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Water Bottle
type: Concept
definition: A metal bottle for carrying water (when not used for rum, beer, or wine).
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Waterproof
type: Concept
definition: A rubber sheet issued to Tommy to keep him dry. It does when the sun is out.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Wave
type: Concept
definition: A line of troops which goes "over the top" in a charge. The waves are numbered according to their turn in going over, viz., "First Wave," "Second Wave," etc. Tommy would sooner go over with the " Tenth Wave."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Wet Canteen
type: Concept
definition: A military saloon or pub where Tommy can get a "wet," Most campaigns and battles are planned and fought in these places.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Whizz Bang
type: Concept
definition: A small German shell which whizzes through the air and explodes with a "bang." Their bark is worse than their bite.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Wind up
type: Concept
definition: Term generally applied to the Germans when they send up several star shells at once because they are nervous and expect an attack or night raid on their trenches.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Windy
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's name for a nervous soldier, coward.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Wipers
type: Concept
definition: Tommy's name for Ypres, sometimes he calls it "Yeeps." A place up the line which Tommy likes to duck. It is even "hot" in the winter time at "Wipers."
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
type: Slang
term status: Stable

Wire Cutters
type: Concept
definition: An instrument for cutting barbed wire, but mostly used for driving nails.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Wiring Party
type: Concept
definition: Another social affair for which Tommy receives invitations. It consists of going "over the top " at night and stretching barbed wire between stakes. A German machine gun generally takes the place of an orchestra.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Woodbine
type: Concept
definition: A cigarette made of paper and old hay. Tommy swears by a Woodbine.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Slang
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Wooden Cross
type: Concept
definition: Two pieces of wood in the form of a cross placed at the head of a Tommy's grave. Inscribed on it are his rank, name, number, and regiment. Also date of death and last but not least, the letters R. I. P.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Working Party
type: Concept
definition: A sort of compulsory invitation affair for which Tommy often is honored with an invitation. It consists of digging, filling sandbags, and ducking shells and bullets.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable

Zeppelin
type: Concept
definition: A bag full of gas invented by a count full of gas. It is a dirigible airship used by the Germans for killing babies and dropping bombs in open fields. You never see them over the trenches, it is safer to bombard civilians in cities. They use Iron Crosses for ballast.
in scheme: Tommy's Dictionary of the Trenches
type: Irony
term status: Stable