noun
underling; rank and file; low-ranking member
Refers to a person of low rank or status within a group, organization, or hierarchy. Often used in contrast to leaders or senior members.
彼はまだ末輩だから、会議で発言する機会は少ない。
He is still a low-ranking member, so he rarely gets a chance to speak at meetings.
末輩の意見も尊重すべきだ。
We should also respect the opinions of the rank and file.
The kanji 末 means 'end' or 'lowest', and 輩 means 'comrade' or 'group', together suggesting someone at the bottom of a group. The exact historical derivation is uncertain.