Rearm Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rearm

[ˈrɪərm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

military context

To rearm means to provide new arms or weapons to someone or a group. This can involve replenishing a military force's weapons supply or renewing its equipment. Rearming may occur following a disarmament phase or just the need for upgraded weaponry. It can also refer to giving someone the ability to defend themselves again after they have been disarmed.

Synonyms

re-equip, reload, resupply.

Examples of usage

  • The country decided to rearm its military forces after years of disarmament.
  • Following the conflict, the faction aimed to rearm in order to protect its interests.
  • The base was rearmed with the latest technology to enhance its defense capabilities.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Military History

  • Many nations have historically rearmed after conflicts to prepare for future threats, especially during the interwar periods.
  • The rearmament phase before World War II significantly altered the balance of power in Europe.
  • In the Cold War era, both NATO and Warsaw Pact nations engaged in extensive rearmament, leading to an arms race.

International Relations

  • Countries often rearm as a response to perceived threats, impacting global security dynamics.
  • Treaties and agreements, such as the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, aim to limit rearmament of nuclear weapons by certain nations.
  • The term can also involve strategic defense initiatives, not just literal weaponry but fortifications and technology.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of rearming appears frequently in movies and video games, often depicting heroes gearing up for a final showdown.
  • Sci-fi franchises often explore rearmament themes, with characters modifying technologies and weapons for new missions.
  • In comic books, when characters return from defeat, they often undergo a rearmament phase, symbolizing resilience and preparation.

Psychology

  • In a metaphorical sense, individuals might 'rearm' mentally by preparing themselves with skills or knowledge after setbacks.
  • The concept of rearmament in personal development can relate to resilience-building and strategic planning for future challenges.
  • Events of rearmament can be linked to psychological readiness, illustrating how preparation impacts performance in stressful situations.

Origin of 'rearm'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' and 'arm' which refers to weapons or tools.
  • The term has roots in military jargon, primarily used in contexts where countries increase their military capabilities.
  • First recorded usage dates back to the 16th century, highlighting its long-standing connection with warfare.

The term 'rearm' is a combination of the prefix 're-', meaning 'again,' and the verb 'arm,' which comes from the Latin 'armare,' meaning 'to equip or fit out' with arms or weapons. 'Arm' can be traced back to the Old French 'arme,' which meant a weapon or military equipment, and is related to the Latin word 'arma.' The use of the term has evolved, particularly in military contexts, where it describes the process of regaining or enhancing military capabilities after they have been reduced or eliminated. The concept of rearming gained prominence in the early to mid-20th century, particularly during periods of disarmament and subsequent military buildup before conflicts.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,953 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.