English Reference
noun · adjective

military

n. · adj.
US /ˈmɪɫəˌtɛɹi/ UK /mˈɪlɪtəɹi/ mil·i·tary UK spelling militaries

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Military

    n.the group of people and organizations that a country uses to fight in wars.

    n.the collective armed forces of a nation, including the army, navy, air force, and marines. Often used with 'the'.

    Simple

    After finishing college, he decided to join the military to see the world.

    In context

    The government increased spending on the military to modernise its fleet of transport aircraft and improve border security.

    armed forcesservices
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate Military

    adj.connected to soldiers, the army, or war.

    adj.relating to or characteristic of soldiers or the armed forces. Usually placed before the noun.

    Simple

    The soldiers wore their green military uniforms during the parade.

    In context

    The general provided a detailed military briefing regarding the strategic importance of the mountain pass.

    martialservice related
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.very organized, strict, or precise, like a soldier.

    adj.resembling the discipline, precision, or strictness associated with armed forces.

    Simple

    She runs her kitchen with military precision to ensure every meal is perfect.

    In context

    The event was planned with military efficiency, ensuring that every speaker stayed exactly within their allotted time.

Usage military operations · military operation · military personnel

Iran sees itself as waging an economic rather than a military war on the US, said Mostafa Khoshcheshm, a professor at the University of Applied Sciences and Technology in Tehran.

Al Jazeera· 14 Aug 2026

The Israeli military said the aim was "to protect the residents".

BBC News· 13 Aug 2026

From Middle English militari, from Old French militaire, from Latin mīlitāris, from mīles (“soldier”). Doublet of militaire.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin mīlitāris
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Very common
Updated