velites

/ ˈviːlɪˌtiːz /

plural noun

1. light-armed troops in ancient Rome, drawn from the poorer classes

Word History and Origins

Origin of velites¹

C17: from Latin, pl of vēles light-armed foot soldier; related to volāre to fly

Example Sentences

The Iberians having at once made an onslaught upon the cattle, he despatched some of the velites against them.

From Project Gutenberg

It was the corps of the Roman velites who did them most harm.

From Project Gutenberg

Did I not win a musket of honour among the Velites of the Guard?

From Project Gutenberg

To avoid infection, the corpses of the velites had been speedily buried; and the position of the graves was no longer visible.

From Project Gutenberg

The youngest soldiers or Velites are ordered to carry a sword, spears, and target (parma).

From Project Gutenberg