(German for 'recruit') is a military designation in German-speaking countries. It was also used historically in the 18th- and 19th-century Russian Empire (see Conscription in the Russian Empire). In Germany, it characterizes newly recruited or sought personnel during an initial period of basic military training. However, in Austria, Switzerland, and some other countries, is the lowest rank of enlisted soldier.
was derived from the French (to seek new soldiers), and (recruit). The noun entered the German language in the 17th century.
In the Austrian Bundesheer, (known as , until 1998) is the lowest rank in the Heer and Luftwaffe. It belongs to the so-called rank group.
In the German Bundeswehr, is the generic term for military personnel during basic training. In most cases it refers to the lowest rank of enlisted men, e.g. a Soldat of the German Army, of the German Air Force, or of the German Navy. <br clear="all" />
In the Swiss Armed Forces, (abbreviated ) is the lowest rank in the Heer and Luftwaffe. However, it is also the generic term for newly recruited military personnel during basic training.