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Definition of leatherneck

leatherneck

/ˈlɛð.ɚˌnɛk/
leath · er · neck
Plural:leathernecks
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leatherneck Lexical Profile

leatherneck Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

American A member of the United States Marine Corps (used as an informal nickname).

Example

"The retired leatherneck shared stories of his overseas service at the veterans' community center."

2

Australian Any of several large Australian honeyeaters of the genus Philemon (family Meliphagidae), commonly called friarbirds, characterized by a bare, dark, leathery head and neck.

Synonyms
View all synonyms for leatherneck

• Nearby Words

leatherette
leatherleaf mahonia
leatherlike
leatherneck
leathers
leatherwear
leatherwork

Word Origin & Etymology

Originating in the 19th century, the nickname refers to the stiff leather collar or stock once worn as part of the uniform by British and American Marines to keep the head erect and protect the neck during boarding actions.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Leatherneck. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/leatherneck
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