Military. A signal made, by beat of drum or bugle call, in the evening, for soldiers to repair to their quarters in garrison or tents in camp.

A signal made by beating the drum; also attributive, trevally-beat. Also transferred.

Military. A signal on the drum for troops to assemble in readiness for marching; the assembly. (Cf. quot. 1667 at troop, v. 1.)

= general, n. 5. Frequently to beat the générale.

Military. A beat of the drum used to assemble troops in preparation for a march, battle, or other action. Cf. générale, n. Now historical.

Military. A signal played to announce the end of the day, originally sounded on the drum at tattoo or sunset. Later also: a musical ceremony held in…

a drum roll used as a signal for soldiers or sailors to assemble.

The roll or beat of a drum used to summon soldiers to arms. Frequently to beat the rappel. Also in extended use. Now rare.

The sound of a drum, trumpet, etc., that signals the desire for a parley. Cf. to beat (also sound) a parley at sense 2a. Obsolete. rare.

The second beat of the drum, or other signal, ordering soldiers to strike their tents and stand to their arms. Cf. assembly, n. 9.