Militia

/mɪˈlɪʃə/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A military force that is raised from the civil population to supplement a regular army in an emergency.

The local militia was called to assist the national army during the natural disaster.

A body of citizens organized for military service, especially in the context of protecting their community or nation.

Many communities formed militias to defend their homes during the war.

In some contexts, a militia can refer to armed groups that are not officially recognized or sanctioned by the government.

The militia operated independently from the government forces, seeking to control the region.

An organization of military volunteers that train and prepare for potential conflicts.

The state militia held training sessions every weekend to maintain their readiness.

In historical contexts, it can refer to the military forces of civilians in colonial or revolutionary times.

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.

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

Some people refer to them as 'armed civilians'.

A derogatory term for radical groups claiming to be militia.

The news often labels them as 'vigilantes'.