A field cornet (Afrikaans: veldkornet) is a term formerly used in South Africa for either a local government official or a military officer. The office had its origins in the position of veldwachtmeester in the Dutch Cape colony, and was regarded as being equivalent to a sergeant. The British administration enhanced its importance with the term field cornet, making it equivalent to an officer's rank. The term field cornet replaced the word adjutant in the commando organisation in 1968.