Legal Definitions - brevet officer

A brevet officer is a type of officer in the military who holds a temporary rank higher than their permanent rank. For example, a captain may be temporarily promoted to the rank of major for a specific mission or task. This temporary promotion is called a brevet.

For instance, during the American Civil War, many officers were given brevet promotions for their bravery and leadership in battle. A captain who led a successful charge might be brevetted to the rank of major for that battle.

The examples illustrate that a brevet officer is a temporary promotion given to military officers for specific achievements or tasks. It is not a permanent rank, but it does come with increased responsibilities and authority.