Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms - as Amended Through 15 February 2016 - (Joint Publication 1-02) (

1. Scope The Joint Publication (JP) 1-02, Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms, sets forth standard US military and associated terminology to encompass the joint activity of the Armed Forces of the United States. These military and associated terms, together with their definitions, constitute approved Department of Defense (DOD) terminology for general use by all DOD components.

2. Purpose This publication supplements standard English-language dictionaries and standardizes military and associated terminology to improve communication and mutual understanding within DOD, with other federal agencies, and among the United States and its allies.

3. Application This publication applies to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Services, the Joint Staff, combatant commands, DOD agencies, and all other DOD components. It is the primary terminology source when preparing correspondence, to include policy, strategy, doctrine, and planning documents.