"The term cadet refers to the second or youngest son in a family, with a historical military connotation tied to birth order and inheritance."
"In the Middle Ages, second sons traditionally joined the military, leading to the word cadet being used for gentlemen serving as low officers or soldiers."
The French word 'cadet' originally signifies the second or youngest son in a family, deriving from the Latin word meaning 'little head.' Historically, in wealthy families, the youngest son often pursued a military career, leading to the word's military connotation in English today. Although 'cadet' made its military appearance in the 15th century among the Gascon officers, its familial meaning remains prevalent in France. The term also applies to younger children in family introductions, contrasting with 'aîné' which describes the oldest child. 'Cadette' is the corresponding feminine form.
Read at The Local France
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