Militia: meaning, definitions and examples

A military force that is raised from the civil population to supplement a regular army in an emergency. Often used when referring to groups that operate independently of government authority, and can sometimes have a negative connotation.

• The militia was called in to help restore order during the crisis.
• Several militia groups have formed in reaction to the government's policies.

An army composed of civilian volunteers who can be mobilized during times of need, typically used in a positive sense to reflect the patriotic duty of ordinary citizens.

• During the war, the citizen army played a crucial role in the defense of the nation.
• The government relies on the citizen army for support during emergencies.

Military personnel who are not in active service but can be called upon in times of need. This term is often used in formal or official contexts related to the military structure.

• The reserves were activated to support the relief efforts after the natural disaster.
• He served in the reserves while pursuing his civilian career.

Individuals who offer their services voluntarily, especially in times of need without expecting financial remuneration. It can be used in various contexts, including but not limited to military ones.

• A group of volunteers organized to help clean up the community after the flood.
• During the war, many volunteers joined the ranks to support the military effort.

Refers to a group of civilians trained to act in a military capacity, often in support of a regular army or for local defense.

• The town relied on the local militia to maintain order during the emergency

Refers to a formally organized and state-sanctioned body of soldiers, typically part of a national army or other official military organization.

• The military force was deployed to the region to restore peace and order

Describes ordinary people who have taken up arms, usually in an unofficial capacity, and can imply a spontaneous or unorganized nature.

• The armed civilians gathered to defend their neighborhood from looters