Military

ˈmɪlɪtəri

nounmediumVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

2 meanings
1

The armed forces of a nation or state, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches.

ˈmɪlɪtəri

nounneutralmedium
General

The armed forces of a country.

The military's primary function is to defend the country.

💡 Simply: Imagine a country's team of people and equipment (like tanks and planes) that are in charge of protecting it from enemies. That team is called the military!

👶 For kids: The group of people and machines that keep a country safe.

More Examples

2

He served for four years in the military.

How It's Used

Politics

"The military plays a crucial role in national defense."

2

Relating to or characteristic of soldiers or armed forces; of or relating to the military.

ˈmɪlɪtəri

adjectiveneutralBeginner
General

Relating to soldiers or armed forces.

The country increased its military spending.

💡 Simply: When something is 'military', it has to do with soldiers, armies, and things like fighting or protecting a country. Like a military uniform or a military exercise.

👶 For kids: About the army or people who protect the country.

More Examples

2

They held a military parade.

3

She attended a military academy.

How It's Used

Politics

"The government implemented military strategies."

History

"Military history is a fascinating subject."

Tip:Think of 'military' as being about soldiers and their activities.

Idioms & expressions

military grade

Meeting high standards of performance and durability, often used to describe equipment.

"The company claims to use military-grade components in its products."

military intelligence

Information collected about an enemy or a potential enemy.

"Military intelligence played a crucial role in the successful operation."

From Latin *militāris*, meaning "relating to soldiers or warfare," derived from *miles* ("soldier").

The word 'military' has been used since the 16th century and has consistently referred to armed forces and related activities.

Memory tip

Think of the military as a shield, protecting a country.

militerymillitarymilatary

Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written