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 army officer, who has worked in various roles in the armed forces since 2001, earlier thanked the "overwhelming" generosity of strangers who had donated towards his recovery.

From BBC

He added: "It paves the way for the legal framework under which British, French and partner forces could operate on Ukrainian soil, securing Ukraine's skies and seas, and regenerating Ukraine's armed forces for the future."

From BBC

The prime minister said the move would be consistent with "recent practice" on the use of UK armed forces.

From BBC

The integrity of the armed forces has been shattered.

From The Wall Street Journal

Southern Command, long an overlooked division of the U.S. armed forces based in Miami, has suddenly found itself on the front lines with more resources and an expanded mission.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• military
• troops