noun

trooper

TROO-puh

noun

A soldier, especially one in a cavalry or armoured unit, or a state police officer (US).

"A state trooper pulled them over for speeding."

Someone who keeps going without complaint despite hardship — used especially in "real trooper."

"She finished the race with a sprained ankle — a real trooper."

How to Use Trooper

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA soldier or police officer, or (informally) someone who copes admirably with difficulty.

Common mistake

Don't confuse with "trouper," which specifically means a loyal, hardworking performer or team member.

Easily confused with

trouper →

Common pairings

state trooper real trooper

troopered past tense, troopers singular

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Can you complete this real example?

A state _____ pulled them over for speeding.

From "troop" + "-er"; the "someone who endures hardship" sense grew out of an older meaning tied to "trouper" (a member of a theatre troupe).

Roper proper hooper cooper snooper improper developer interloper paratrooper