militia
muh-LISH-uh/məˈlɪʃə/
- 1A group of ordinary people who train to fight and can be called on to defend their area when needed.
Like a neighborhood team of regular people who keep ready to protect their own homes.
The town's militia gathered at the bridge to hold off the raiders.
Many farmers joined the militia when the war reached their valley.
Note
- 2The police force in some countries, such as Belarus.
In Belarus, the militia patrols the streets and answers emergency calls.
She reported the stolen bicycle to the local militia that afternoon.
Similarmilitsia
Note
Practice
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Origin
From Latin mīlitia meaning "army" or "military service", which comes from mīles meaning "soldier".