Rearm

/ˌriːˈɑːrm/

verbmediumCommonGeneral

Definitions

1

To supply with weapons or the means of waging war again.

/ˌriːˈɑːrm/

verbneutralmedium
General

To supply with weapons again.

The nation began to rearm its troops after years of disarmament.

💡 Simply: It's like giving someone weapons and equipment again, especially for a fight or war. Think of a superhero getting their gadgets back.

👶 For kids: To give someone weapons or equipment again, like giving a toy soldier a new sword.

More Examples

2

Governments often debate whether to rearm in response to international tensions.

3

After the conflict, the army sought to rearm with more advanced technology.

How It's Used

Military

"The country decided to rearm its forces after the peace treaty collapsed."

Politics

"The debate centered on whether to rearm the militia groups."

From 're-' (again) + 'arm'. The prefix 're-' signifies repetition or restoration, indicating to equip with weapons again or replenish arms.

The word has been used since the early 20th century, particularly in discussions of international relations and military strategies. It gained prominence during periods of global conflict and tension.

Memory tip

Imagine re-equipping soldiers with weapons for a new battle. 'Re-' means again, and 'arm' refers to weapons.

re-armrearrm

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written