Tail End Charlie
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
The last aircraft in a formation.
Register: slang
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
The rear gunner in a bomber.
Register: slang
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
The man guarding the rear of a patrol.
Register: slang
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “Tail End Charlie” mean?
The last aircraft in a formation.
Is “Tail End Charlie” formal or informal?
Tail End Charlie is generally slang.