WordGarden.ioarm
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɑːm/
US
- /ˈɑrm/
Meanings
Noun
the upper limb of the human body from the shoulder to the hand
a weapon, especially in the collective sense arms
a part that extends from a larger object, structure, or organization
Verb
to provide someone or oneself with weapons
to set a device, explosive, or security system so it is ready to operate
Beyond the definition
We usually think of an "arm" as the body part extending from the shoulder to the hand—used for reaching, lifting, carrying, and hugging. But "arm" has a broader meaning. It can also refer to something that extends outward like an arm, providing support or reach: the arm of a chair, the arm of a crane, the arms of a river, or the arms of a galaxy.
It can also be about weapons and preparation. As a noun, arms often means "weapons" (“to take up arms”). As a verb, to arm someone is to give them weapons (“to arm the guards”), and to arm a device or system is to make it ready to work (“to arm the alarm”). It’s a surprisingly versatile word!
The most familiar meaning of "arm" is the limb extending from the shoulder to the hand—essential for movement, manipulation, and feeling. We use our arms for countless daily tasks, from writing and eating to embracing loved ones. "She injured her arm playing volleyball."
However, "arm" extends beyond anatomy. It can describe anything resembling an arm in shape or function: a projecting part offering support or leverage. Consider the arm of a sofa, providing a place to rest your elbow; the arm of a scale balance, measuring weight; or even the arms of a hurricane, swirling outwards from its center. However, "arm" extends beyond anatomy. It can describe anything resembling an arm in shape or function: a projecting part offering support or leverage. Consider the arm of a sofa, providing a place to rest your elbow; the arm of a balance scale, measuring weight; or even the arms of a hurricane, swirling outward from its center.
In another common sense, arms (usually plural) means "weapons" in general, especially in older or more formal language: “to lay down your arms,” “to be up in arms,” or “small arms.” Related to that, "arm" can be used as a verb meaning to equip someone with weapons or supplies for conflict. To "arm" soldiers is to provide them with what they need to fight. You might hear about countries arming themselves, or a knight being armed for jousting.
"Arm" can also mean “make ready to operate,” especially for devices and security systems: you arm a bomb, a trap, or an alarm—meaning you set it so it will go off when triggered (the opposite is disarm).
Finally, "arm" can refer to a branch of a larger organization (“the research arm of the company,” “the enforcement arm of the state”), where the idea is something that reaches out and acts on behalf of the whole.
The word also appears in compound words like "armchair," "armistice" (a truce), and "arms race."
So whether it's a body part, a supporting structure, or the act of preparing for battle, "arm" is a word that speaks to reach, support, and power.
Examples
- 1
Everyday gesture
He raised his arm to ask a question.
- 2
Walking together
She slipped her arm through mine as we crossed the street.
- 3
Being held
The child fell asleep in his mother's arms.
- Phrasein someone's arms
being held by them
- 4
Furniture
Leave your coat on the arm of the chair.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Organization
The company is expanding its research arm in Asia.
- 6
Equipped
The guards were armed with shields and batons.
- Patternbe armed with + weapon/equipment
carry or be equipped with it
- 7
Preparation
You should arm yourself with a few facts before the meeting.
- Patternarm yourself with + useful thing
prepare yourself by getting it
- 8
Warm welcome
They welcomed us with open arms.
- Phrasewith open arms
very warmly
- 9
Safe distance
Keep the heater at arm's length from the curtains.
- Phraseat arm's length
as far away as you can reach
- 10
Expensive
That designer bag costs an arm and a leg.
- Phrasecost an arm and a leg
be very expensive
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- armnounverb
Forms
- armspluralnounverb
- armedpast tenseverbnoun
- arming-ing formverbnoun