(A generic name for) a British private soldier; British private soldiers collectively. Also occasionally in extended use: a private in any army; a member of the rank and file in any organization.
Origin
Mid 19th century. Apparently from Tommy, pet form of the male forename Thomas + the surname Atkins, after Thomas Atkins.
Definition of Tommy Atkins in US English:
Tommy Atkins
(also Tommie Atkins)
nounˌtɒmi ˈatkɪnz
(A generic name for) a British private soldier; British private soldiers collectively. Also occasionally in extended use: a private in any army; a member of the rank and file in any organization.
Origin
Mid 19th century. Apparently from Tommy, pet form of the male forename Thomas + the surname Atkins, after Thomas Atkins.