A grenadier was originally a specialist soldier who threw hand grenades in battle. The distinct, combat function of the grenadier was established in the mid-17th century, when grenadiers were recruited from among the strongest and largest soldiers.

What do Grenadiers do?

grenadier, soldier particularly selected and trained to hurl grenades. The earliest grenadiers (late 16th century) were not organized in special units, but by the mid-17th century they formed special companies within battalions.

What does grenadier mean in English?

1a : a soldier who carries and throws grenades. b : a member of a special regiment or corps formerly armed with grenades. 2 : any of various deep-sea fishes (family Macrouridae) that are related to the cods and have an elongate tapering body and compressed pointed tail.