A subaltern (IPA: /ˈsʌbəltərn/) is a primarily British military term for a junior officer.
[1] Literally meaning "subordinate", subaltern is used to describe commissioned officers below the rank of captain and generally comprises the various grades of lieutenant.
[5] Princess Elizabeth held the rank of second subaltern in the ATS during World War II.
Continental Army subalterns ranks were supposed to wear green colored cockades in their hats.
[8] In 1800, the United States Army's cornet, ensign and subaltern ranks were replaced by second lieutenant.