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Cavalry: meaning, definitions and examples

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cavalry

 

[ ˈkæv.əl.ri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

military unit

Cavalry refers to the troops that are trained to fight on horseback. Historically, cavalry units were an essential component of armies, serving as highly mobile forces utilized for reconnaissance, flanking maneuvers, and engaging enemy forces. With the advent of modern warfare, traditional cavalry has mostly been replaced by mechanized units, but the term is still used to describe units that provide rapid strike capabilities. In contemporary contexts, 'cavalry' may also refer to assistance arriving in a challenging situation.

Synonyms

cavalrymen, horsemen, mounted troops

Examples of usage

  • The cavalry charged into battle, providing crucial support.
  • They called in the cavalry when the situation became dire.
  • The general emphasized the importance of cavalry in his strategy.
  • In the old days, the cavalry was crucial for scouting enemy positions.

Translations

Translations of the word "cavalry" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cavalaria

🇮🇳 अश्वसेना

🇩🇪 Kavallerie

🇮🇩 kavaleri

🇺🇦 кавалерія

🇵🇱 kawaleria

🇯🇵 騎兵隊

🇫🇷 cavalerie

🇪🇸 caballería

🇹🇷 süvari

🇰🇷 기병대

🇸🇦 فرسان

🇨🇿 jezdecká jednotka

🇸🇰 jazdecká jednotka

🇨🇳 骑兵

🇸🇮 kavalerija

🇮🇸 riddaralið

🇰🇿 ат әскерлері

🇬🇪 ცხენოსანი

🇦🇿 cavaly

🇲🇽 caballería

Etymology

The term 'cavalry' originates from the Middle French word 'cavalerie,' which comes from 'cheval,' meaning horse. It was first used in the English language in the late 15th century. The concept evolved from the medieval period when mounted soldiers were integral to the dynamics of warfare, offering speed and mobility that foot soldiers could not match. As warfare evolved, so did the role of cavalry, with changes in technology and tactics leading to the development of light and heavy cavalry units. By the 19th century, the introduction of rifles and machine guns diminished the effectiveness of cavalry charges, yet the term has persisted in military vernacular, adapting its meaning to fit modern contexts and technologies.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,933 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.