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military

A2
nounadjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /mˈɪlɪtəri/

US

  • /ˈmɪləˌtɛri/
  • /ˈmɪlɪˌtɛri/

Description

The word "military" is used for things connected with a country's armed forces. It can describe soldiers, bases, equipment, training, and the systems that support them. It is not only about fighting in war. It also includes planning, transport, medical support, and defense during times of peace.

You might hear about "military spending" when a country puts money into defense, or say that someone has a "military background" if they served in the armed forces. "The military" can also be used as a noun to mean the armed forces themselves. In some contexts, such as a "military coup," it refers to the armed forces taking control of a government by force. Overall, the word points to organized national defense and armed service.

Examples

  1. 1

    Military service

    Her brother is in the military, so he moves often.

    • Phrase

      be in the military

      serve as a soldier or officer

  2. 2

    Military base

    The town grew quickly after a large military base was built nearby.

  3. 3

    National service

    Many young people did military service after finishing school.

  4. 4

    Job training

    The job requires military training as well as technical skills.

  5. 5

    Government spending

    The government increased military spending after the border attack.

  6. 6

    Military action

    The president said military action would be a last resort.

    • Phrase

      a last resort

      something you do only when nothing else works

  7. 7

    Political control

    The country was under military rule for almost ten years.

    • Phrase

      under military rule

      controlled by the army rather than by elected leaders

Forms and spellings

2 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • militarynounadjective

Forms

  • militariespluralnounadjective