Ma-trŏss’, n.

n. [D. matroos, Dan. & Sw. matros, Ger. matrose, a sailor, from Fr. matelot, for materot, materos, from Lat. mattarius, one who sleeps on a mat, from matta, mat; for sailors and mariners sleep on hanging mats or hammocks.] (Mil.) One of the soldiers in a train of artillery, who are next to the gunners, and assist them in loading, firing, and sponging the guns. They carry firelocks, and march with the store-wagons as guards and assistants.

☞ There are no soldiers having this designation in the United States army. It must be nearly or entirely obsolete as an English word.