UNDER ARMS Meaning and
Definition
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Under arms is a phrase that typically refers to the act of carrying weapons or being armed. It is commonly used in military or law enforcement contexts to describe individuals who are equipped with firearms or other armaments. The phrase can also be used metaphorically to indicate a state of readiness for combat or defense.
In a literal sense, under arms means to possess or carry weapons. It suggests that an individual is armed and prepared for potential conflict or self-defense. This could include firearms, knives, or any other type of weapon.
Figuratively, under arms denotes a state of high alertness or preparedness. It signifies being ready for action or potential confrontation. It is often used to describe a military force or an organization that is actively prepared for battle or defensive measures.
The phrase under arms can be traced back to early military usage, where soldiers would march with their weapons or carry them while stationed at a particular post. Over time, it has evolved to encompass a broader meaning of being prepared for danger or conflict.
Overall, under arms conveys the concept of being armed or prepared for combat, either literally or metaphorically. It implies a state of vigilance and readiness for potential threats, whether in a military, law enforcement, or metaphorical context.
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Drawn up ready to use arms, as soldiers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for UNDER ARMS
- ynder arms
- hnder arms
- jnder arms
- inder arms
- 8nder arms
- 7nder arms
- ubder arms
- umder arms
- ujder arms
- uhder arms
- unser arms
- unxer arms
- uncer arms
- unfer arms
- unrer arms
- uneer arms
- undwr arms
- undsr arms
- unddr arms
Etymology of UNDER ARMS
The term "under arms" originated in the late 14th century and its etymology can be traced back to Old English and Middle English.
The word "under" comes from Old English "under", which means "beneath" or "below". It has remained relatively unchanged in its meaning over the centuries.
The word "arms" comes from Middle English "armes", which is derived from the Old French word "armes". In this context, "arms" refers to weapons or armor.
When used together, "under arms" originally referred to someone being in a state of readiness or preparedness, particularly in terms of being armed or having weapons and armor. This phrase was commonly used to describe soldiers or warriors who were equipped and ready for battle.
Idioms with the word UNDER ARMS
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be under arms
The idiom "be under arms" means to be in a state of readiness for battle or confrontation. It refers to being prepared and equipped, usually with weapons, to engage in conflict or defend oneself. It can also imply being alert or vigilant in anticipation of a threatening or challenging situation.
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under arms
The idiom "under arms" typically means being armed with weapons or prepared for battle or conflict.
Similar spelling words for UNDER ARMS
- underbred,
- underhand,
- underexpose,
- undercut,
- undertaker,
- underbid,
- underquote,
- under fire,
- under way,
- underwear,
- undertide,
- understudy,
- underpass,
- Underdahl,
- underbelly,
- underlying,
- under it,
- underling,
- underived,
- undercoat,
- underlie,
- undershrub,
- underworld,
- underfoot,
- underrate,
- undersell,
- underside,
- underpants,
- underdressed,
- undertow,
- underestimate,
- underclass,
- underwood,
- undersize,
- under attack,
- underfelt,
- underlay,
- undershirt,
- underpay,
- underpin,
- undersoil,
- undersexed,
- underdown,
- under wraps,
- underway,
- undergarment,
- underdrawers,
- undershoot,
- underfur,
- undersign,
- underdress,
- underpart,
- under that,
- underseal,
- underskirt,
- undercover,
- underclassman,
- underfed,
- underdog,
- undersea,
- understand,
- underseller,
- underslung,
- underhill,
- undergird,
- undermine,
- underperform,
- underplay,
- underspend,
- understood,
- underline,
- underact,
- underage,
- underboss,
- undertake,
- underprice,
- underemployed,
- undershot,
- undergo,
- underscore,
- underwing,
- underneath,
- underwater,
- underframe,
- underwrite,
- undergrad,
- undergrow,
- underarm,
- undervalue,
- underbrush,
- undertone,
- understock,
- understate,
- underhung,
- under my nose,
- undersized,
- underspent,
- underbody,
- underdone.
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