platoon

Meanings

1. A unit of thirty to forty soldiers typically commanded by a lieutenant and forming part of a company.
2. A subdivision of a fire company, led by a captain or lieutenant.
3. A group of self-driving vehicles travelling in a close convoy and communicating electronically with each other.
4. A group of children in the platoon grouping education system.

1. To alternate starts with a teammate of opposite handedness, depending on the handedness of the opposing pitcher
2. To specialize in a particular position or playing style.
3. Of self-driving vehicles: to travel in a close convoy, each vehicle communicating electronically with the others.

Etymology

From obsolete French plauton, variant of peloton, from Middle French pelote + -on. Doublet of peloton. Compare pellet.