Rank and file Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the ordinary members of an organization (such as the enlisted soldiers of an army)
    rank.
    • the strike was supported by the union rank and file
    • he rose from the ranks to become a colonel
  2. noun people who constitute the main body of any group

WordNet

Definitions
  1. . (a) (Mil.) The whole body of common soldiers, including also corporals. In a more extended sense, it includes sergeants also, excepting the noncommissioned staff. analogously, the lowest ranking members of any organization (b) See under 1st File.
Definitions
  1. . (a) The body of soldiers constituing the mass of an army, including corporals and privates. Wilhelm. (b) Those who constitute the bulk or working members of a party, society, etc., in distinction from the leaders.

Webster 1913