Legal Definitions - rank and file

Definition: The term "rank and file" refers to the ordinary members of a group or organization, who are not in positions of leadership or authority.

Examples:

• In the military, the rank and file refers to the enlisted soldiers, who are not officers.
• In a labor union, the rank and file refers to the general membership, who are not part of the union's leadership.

These examples illustrate how the term "rank and file" is used to distinguish between those who hold positions of authority and those who do not. The rank and file are the backbone of an organization, providing the labor and support necessary for it to function.