provost guard

[ proh-voh ]

noun

1. a detachment of soldiers assigned to police duties under the provost marshal.

provost guard

/ prəˈvəʊ /

noun

1. (esp in the US) a detachment under command of the provost marshal

Word History and Origins

Origin of provost guard¹

An Americanism dating back to 1770–80

Example Sentences

I proposed to our little party that they should remain while I rode back to the army for a detachment of the provost-guard.

From Project Gutenberg

These unpleasant reflections were, however, not confined to the officer in command of the provost guard.

From Project Gutenberg

In the back of his head there formed a little picture—a drumhead court-martial, a provost guard, a tree and a rope.

From Project Gutenberg

"Then I'll do my best to get you by the provost guard," Ensign Darrin promised, turning to lead the way back.

From Project Gutenberg

The men of the provost guard parted to allow the three Americans to pass on their way.

From Project Gutenberg