garrison
n. countable C1 Advanced US //ˈɡæɹɪsən// UK //ɡˈæɹɪsən// gar·ri·son
n. a group of soldiers who live in a specific town or building to protect it. It can also mean the building or fort where these soldiers stay.
n. a body of troops stationed in a fortified place or town to defend it; also refers to the military post or station itself.
The garrison stayed inside the fort during the long winter.
The king sent a small garrison to protect the border town from potential raids.
Historical records indicate that the garrison was poorly supplied, leading to a swift surrender when the enemy forces finally breached the outer walls of the citadel.
Usage
Often used with 'of' to specify the number of troops, such as 'a garrison of five hundred men'.