cavalry

[ kav-uhl-ree ]

noun

, plural cav·al·ries.

1. Military.
   1. the part of a military force composed of troops that serve on horseback.
   2. mounted soldiers collectively.
   3. the motorized, armored units of a military force organized for maximum mobility.
2. horsemen, horses, etc., collectively.

cavalry

/ ˈkævəlrɪ /

noun

1. (esp formerly) the part of an army composed of mounted troops
2. the armoured element of a modern army
3. ( as modifier )

   a cavalry charge

   a cavalry unit

Derived Forms

• ˈcavalryman, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of cavalry¹

1585–95; syncopated variant of cavallery < Italian cavalleria, derivative of cavaliere cavalier

Word History and Origins

Origin of cavalry¹

C16: from French cavallerie, from Italian cavalleria, from cavaliere horseman; see cavalier

Example Sentences

A winner and an experienced tactician, Ranieri came out of retirement to take charge of the club he loves above all others - and suggested his arrival was akin to calling in the cavalry.

From BBC

They went again through Jordan and his cavalry.

From BBC

On July 28, the attack began, including cavalry troops under the command of Major George S. Patton.

From Los Angeles Times

There is a degree of hope that down the line, when the cavalry returns, a new phase can be entered.

From BBC

The attacks culminated in the “Bloody Island Massacre” on May 15, 1850, when cavalry soldiers slaughtered hundreds of Indigenous villagers at Clear Lake.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• squadron