brevet

noun

1. A military document entitling a commissioned officer to hold a higher rank temporarily, but without an increase in pay.
2. A warrant from the government, granting a privilege, title, or dignity, as in France.
3. (broadly)A warrant from the government, granting a privilege, title, or dignity, as in France.

   “Delightful inducements to embark, fine chance for promotion, it seems—aye, a stove boat will make me an immortal by brevet.”

   “They came over to Massachusetts Bay in another vessel, and thus escaped the onus of that brevet nobility under which the successors of the Mayflower Pilgrims had descended.”

4. An organized, long-distance bicycle ride — not a race, but a test of endurance — which follows a designated but unmarked route passing through check points.

verb

1. To promote by brevet.