noun
1. : the enlisted men of an armed force (as privates and corporals) whose normal position is in the ranks of a formation
most of their rank and file … had heavy shields bound with iron and a long cutting sword — Tom Wintringham
2.
a. : the individuals who constitute the body of an organization, society, or nation
the rank and file was made up of brawling adventure lovers — Julian Dana
the inner circle of leaders had forced the program, rather than the rank and file — F.L.Paxson
bring the government … into more intimate relations with the rank and file — F.A.Ogg & Harold Zink
b. : the general membership of a union
when irresponsible labor leaders … entice away the rank and file from the responsible leaders — A.M.Schlesinger b.1917