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velites

/ ˈviːlɪˌtiːz /

plural noun

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


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Word History and Origins

Origin of velites1

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

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Example Sentences

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

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

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

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

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

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velitationvelleity