military Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the military forces of a nation
    armed forces; armed services; military machine; war machine.
    • their military is the largest in the region
    • the military machine is the same one we faced in 1991 but now it is weaker
  2. adjective of or relating to the study of the principles of warfare
    • military law
  3. adjective characteristic of or associated with soldiers or the military
    • military uniforms
  4. adjective associated with or performed by members of the armed services as contrasted with civilians
    • military police

WordNet

Mil"i*ta*ry adjective
Etymology
L. militaris, militarius, from miles, militis, soldier: cf. F. militaire.
Definitions
  1. Of or pertaining to soldiers, to arms, or to war; belonging to, engaged in, or appropriate to, the affairs of war; as, a military parade; military discipline; military bravery; military conduct; military renown.
    Nor do I, as an enemy to peace, Troop in the throngs of military men. Shak.
  2. Performed or made by soldiers; as, a military election; a military expedition. Bacon.
Mil"i*ta*ry noun
Etymology
Cf. F. militaire.
Definitions
  1. The whole body of soldiers; soldiery; militia; troops; the army.

Webster 1913