Dug-out or Dugout: A protected place of shelter in the trenches. Also, familiarly, a term not always kindly meant, for elderly officers returning to temporary service. It first came in during the Boer War of 1899-1902, for pensioned or retired officers who came back to service in consequence of the depleting of the active establishment through casualties in the field. In the war hundreds came forward as volunteers and served in every capacity both naval and military, in most cases filling subordinate posts, regardless of former rank. [1]
Not to be confused with Dig out.
References / notes
- ↑ Edward Fraser and John Gibbons (1925). Soldier and Sailor Words and Phrases. Routledge, London p.84.
Glossary of words and phrases
The above term is listed in our glossary of words and phrases of the Armed Forces of Great Britain during the Great War. Included are trench slang, service terms, expressions in everyday use, nicknames, the titles and origins of British and Commonwealth Regiments, and warfare in general. These words and phrases are contemporary to the war, which is reflected in the language used. They have been transcribed from three primary sources (see Contents). Feel free to expand upon and improve this content.
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