A soldier is a member of an army, a broad term encompassing roles from conscripted personnel to officers. The word itself boasts an engaging etymology, stemming from Old French and Medieval Latin terms meaning "mercenary" or "one having pay," ultimately tracing back to the ancient Roman coin, the solidus. While "soldier" is a general designation, specific roles are often recognized by titles like "infantryman," "paratrooper," or "medic," and soldiers are frequently identified by nicknames such as "G.I.s" for American troops (popularized during World War II) or "Tommies" for British infantry.
Historically, military service was largely male-dominated, particularly in combat roles. However, World War II marked a significant shift, with women like the Soviet "Heroes of the Soviet Union" and members of the U.S. "WACs" ("Women's Army Corps") playing crucial roles, leading to their eventual integration into standing armies by the late 20th century. The article also touches upon how racial restrictions historically impacted service in armies like the U.S. Army, underscoring the evolving social context of military employment.