sergeant at arms

American  

noun

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

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sergeant at arms British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of sergeant at arms

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

"The sergeant at arms has confirmed that Senator Bato is no longer in the building," Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano told a news conference, using Dela Rosa's nickname.

From Barron's • May 14, 2026

The dress code was updated soon thereafter by Martha Pope, the first female sergeant at arms.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 28, 2025

They all listened as the sergeant at arms announced “hear ye, hear ye, all persons are commanded to keep silent under pain of imprisonment” during the course of the impeachment trial.

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2024

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 • Mar. 21, 2023

A few minutes later, the spectacle began with a thunderclap—the beating of a gavel and the call of the sergeant at arms.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama