Meaning & Definition of word "Militia"

Militia

/mɪˈlɪʃə/

1. A military force that is raised from the civil population to supplement a regular army in an emergency.
- Example: The local militia was called to assist the national army during the natural disaster.
2. A body of citizens organized for military service, especially in the context of protecting their community or nation.
- Example: Many communities formed militias to defend their homes during the war.
3. In some contexts, a militia can refer to armed groups that are not officially recognized or sanctioned by the government.
- Example: The militia operated independently from the government forces, seeking to control the region.
4. An organization of military volunteers that train and prepare for potential conflicts.
- Example: The state militia held training sessions every weekend to maintain their readiness.
5. In historical contexts, it can refer to the military forces of civilians in colonial or revolutionary times.
- Example: During the American Revolution, colonial militias played a crucial role in the fight against British troops.

From Latin 'militia', meaning 'military service, warfare'.

well-regulated militia:

A militia that is properly organized and trained according to legal standards.

citizens' militia:

A militia comprised of ordinary citizens.

local militia:

A militia that operates within a specific local area or community.

military:

Relating to armed forces or warfare.

volunteer:

A person who freely offers to take part in an activity.

paramilitary:

Forces that are organized similarly to a military force but operate without legal authority.

Meaning: A term used for groups acting outside of official military structures.

Example Sentence: Some people refer to them as 'armed civilians'.

Meaning: A derogatory term for radical groups claiming to be militia.

Example Sentence: The news often labels them as 'vigilantes'.