armed forces

American  

plural noun

1. military, naval, and air forces, especially of a nation or of a number of nations.

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armed forces British  

plural noun

1. the military forces of a nation or nations, including the army, navy, air force, marines, etc

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Etymology

Origin of armed forces

First recorded in 1685–95

Example Sentences

The Sudanese government and armed forces didn’t respond to requests for comment.

From The Wall Street Journal

And while the armed forces provide guaranteed pensions after 20 years and unmatched job security, they don’t offer bulky salaries or six-figure year-end bonuses.

From The Wall Street Journal

It capped its armed forces at 85,000 troops, less than 10% of its current strength, and set limits on its long-range weapons.

From The Wall Street Journal

The armed forces would benefit from motivated young French men and women, he added: "It is an act of trust in our youth."

From BBC

"All borders are now open", General Lansana Mansali, inspector general of the armed forces, told AFP, reversing the prior day's closure of all land, air and sea entry.

From Barron's

Related Words

• military
• troops