eche

n. [ F., fr. échelle ladder, fr. L. scala. ] 1. (Mil.) An arrangement of a body of troops when its divisions are drawn up in parallel lines each to the right or the left of the one in advance of it, like the steps of a ladder in position for climbing. Also used adjectively; as, echelon distance. Upton (Tactics). [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Naval) An arrangement of a fleet in a wedge or V form. Encyc. Dict. [ 1913 Webster ]

Echelon lens (Optics), a large lens constructed in several parts or layers, extending in a succession of annular rings beyond the central lens; -- used in lighthouses. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. (Mil.) To place in echelon; to station divisions of troops in echelon. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. i. To take position in echelon. [ 1913 Webster ]

Change direction to the left, echelon by battalion from the right. Upton (Tactics). [ 1913 Webster ]

n. a natural family of fishes having a sucking disk on the head for clinging to other fishes and to ships.
Syn. -- family Echeneididae, family Echeneidae. [ WordNet 1.5 ]