order arms

American  

noun

1. (in the manual of arms in close-order drill) a position in which the rifle is held at the right side, with its butt on the ground.

2. (as an interjection) the command to move the rifle to this position.

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order arms British  

interjection

1. military the order in drill to hold the rifle close to the right side with the butt resting on the ground

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Etymology

Origin of order arms

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Yes, they can order arms, ships and planes from others.

From Washington Post • Oct. 15, 2018

Instantly the Union soldiers shifted from order arms to carry arms, the salute of honor.

From Washington Post

Being in the above position, at the command Two, lower the piece gently to the ground with the right hand, drop the left hand quickly by the side, and take the position of order arms.

From The Plattsburg Manual A Handbook for Military Training by Ellis, Olin Oglesby

Indoors, armed, render the prescribed salute, i.e., the rifle salute at order arms or at trail.

From The Plattsburg Manual A Handbook for Military Training by Ellis, Olin Oglesby

Position of order arms standing, i.e., the position of attention under arms.

From The Plattsburg Manual A Handbook for Military Training by Ellis, Olin Oglesby