armed neutrality

American  

noun

1. military preparedness without commitment, especially as the expressed policy of a neutral nation in wartime; readiness to counter with force an invasion of rights by any belligerent power.

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Etymology

Origin of armed neutrality

First recorded in 1770–80

Example Sentences

But they say it is critical to armed neutrality.

From New York Times

This led to what the Swiss call “armed neutrality” — a commitment not just to neutrality, but to maintaining the ability to protect it.

From New York Times

Opinion polls had shown the plan would easily win approval in a country where armed neutrality is a tradition, but only 50.2% of voters approved the funding in September.

From Reuters

Opinion polls had shown the plan would easily win approval in a country where armed neutrality is a tradition.

From Reuters

Armed neutrality is crucial to how Switzerland defines itself, he said, going back to the belief a strong army deterred invasion by Nazi Germany in World War II. The Pope’s Swiss guards are also a reminder of the country’s mercenary past.

From Reuters