(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.
Etymology was derived from the French (to seek new soldiers), and (recruit). The noun entered the German language in the 17th century.Word and tradition in the German Army (de: Heer), by Transfeldt – v. Brand – Quenstedt, 6th increased edition, Hamburg 11 H.G. Schulz 1967, p. 9/§12, definition: Rekrut
Austria
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.
Germany 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.
Switzerland + Rekrut in Switzerland No rank insignia Rank insignia Swiss army Rank group Enlisted men (de: Mannschaften) Army / Air Force Rekrut Salary bracket CHF 4.-/Day Lower:Higher: Not established Soldat
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.
References
BROCKHAUS, The encyclopedia in 24 volumes (1796–2001), Volume 18: 3-7653-3678-5, page 231; definition «Rerkrut».