dogface: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1-C2 (obscure outside historical/military contexts)Historical Military Slang (U.S.), Informal
Quick answer
What does “dogface” mean?
A slang term for an American infantryman, especially during World War II.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A slang term for an American infantryman, especially during World War II.
Informal term for a soldier in a non-officer role; also used as an affectionate, self-deprecating nickname among infantrymen. Can refer to an unattractive or plain face.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is overwhelmingly American and is not used in British military slang. The British equivalent for a common soldier is 'squaddie' or 'tommy'.
Connotations
In American usage: nostalgic, historic, evokes WWII generation. It is used neutrally or affectionately among veterans. In British usage: unknown or recognized as an Americanism.
Frequency
Very low frequency in the UK. Low but stable frequency in American historical contexts and among military history enthusiasts.
Grammar
How to Use “dogface” in a Sentence
[modifier] + dogfacedogface + [from/in] + [war/theater]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dogface” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Not used as a verb]
American English
- [Not used as a verb]
adverb
British English
- [Not used as an adverb]
American English
- [Not used as an adverb]
adjective
British English
- [Not used as an adjective]
American English
- [Not used as an adjective]
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Never used.
Academic
Used only in historical/military studies to refer to WWII infantry.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Might be used by veterans or in nostalgic conversation.
Technical
Not used in modern military technical vocabulary.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “dogface”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dogface”
- Using it to refer to any soldier from any country or era.
- Using it in formal writing without explanation.
- Confusing it with the literal meaning ('ugly face').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it was and is generally used neutrally or with self-deprecating affection among soldiers. It is not considered derogatory.
Yes, but this is a separate, literal meaning ('a face like a dog'). The military slang meaning is distinct and more specific.
No, it is a historical term. The modern equivalent slang for an infantryman is 'grunt'.
The origin is unclear. Theories include: 1) The resemblance of a helmeted soldier to a dog's muzzle, 2) The arduous, dog-like life in the field, 3) A play on 'doughboy' (WWI term).
A slang term for an American infantryman, especially during World War II.
Dogface is usually historical military slang (u.s.), informal in register.
Dogface: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdɒɡfeɪs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdɑːɡfeɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[no standard idioms; the word itself is idiomatic slang]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Picture a soldier living in a foxhole, his face unshaven and dirty like a loyal dog sharing his hardship.
Conceptual Metaphor
SOLDIER IS A DOG (loyal, enduring hardship, common).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the term 'dogface' primarily used?