sergeant at arms

noun

1. an executive officer of a legislative or other body, whose duty it is to enforce its commands, preserve order, etc.

sergeant at arms

noun

1. an officer of a legislative or fraternal body responsible for maintaining internal order
2. (formerly) an officer who served a monarch or noble, esp as an armed attendant

Word History and Origins

Origin of sergeant at arms¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

All three lawmakers, who refused dispersal orders by the sergeant at arms, were removed from their committee assignments following the demonstration.

From Washington Times

All three lawmakers, who also refused dispersal orders by the sergeant at arms, were removed from their committee assignments following the demonstration.

From Washington Times

Authorities are “monitoring the situation and are prepared to share important information with the Senate community as the situation warrants,” the sergeant at arms said.

From Washington Times

In an email to all Senate email account holders on Wednesday, the sergeant at arms recommended that anyone registered on the health insurance exchange freeze their credit to prevent identity theft.

From Seattle Times

By the time of the Capitol attack, prosecutors say, Mr. Nordean was the “sergeant at arms” of the group’s Seattle chapter and one of Mr. Tarrio’s ground commanders.

From New York Times