military
/ˈmɪl.ɪ.tɹi/
This term carries a connotation of strict discipline, hierarchy, and state-sanctioned authority. It is used in formal contexts to describe the systemic organization of defense, contrasting with "civilian" life, which represents the general public and non-combatant society. As a noun, the word is typically treated as a collective singular entity referring to the entire establishment of armed forces. While it describes a vast group of individuals, it does not function as a plural-only noun like "police," nor does it require partitive counters; it functions as a standard uncountable noun when referring to the institution.
Used as a collective noun to describe the entire organization or institution of the armed forces (e.g., 'joining the military'), rather than referring to individual soldiers.
💬Casual Conversation
My cousin's going military. He's totally sold on the idea.
Wait, really? That's a huge pivot from his art degree.
Meanings
Relating to the armed forces or the profession of a soldier.
"The government decided to take military action to resolve the conflict."
The armed forces of a country; the collective organization of soldiers, sailors, and airmen.
"He spent twenty years in the military before retiring as a colonel."
Examples
The government decided to take military action to resolve the conflict.
He spent twenty years in the military before retiring as a colonel.
Collocations & Compounds
military base
Noun collocation: a permanent installation used by the armed forces
The troops were stationed at a remote military base.
military uniform
Noun collocation: the standardized clothing worn by members of the armed forces
He looked sharp in his dress military uniform.
military strategy
Noun collocation: a plan of action designed to achieve a victory in war
The generals spent weeks refining their military strategy.
military service
Noun collocation: the period of time spent serving in the armed forces
She decided to enlist for a term of military service.
deploy military
Verb collocation: to move armed forces into a position for strategic action
The government decided to deploy military units to the border.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin word militaris, which stems from miles, meaning soldier. The root is further traced back to the Latin verb militare, meaning to serve as a soldier, which is linked to the concept of service and duty within a structured armed force. This evolution reflects the transition from individual combatants to organized state-sponsored armies.