VocabDictionary

cavalry

/ˈkév.əl.ri/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The part of a military force composed of troops that serve on horseback.

Example Sentences:
  • “The cavalry led the charge across the open plain during the battle.”
  • “Historically, the cavalry was considered the most prestigious and mobile branch of the army.”
2.noun

Modern military units that are highly mobile and equipped with armored vehicles or helicopters.

Example Sentences:
  • “The 1st Air Cavalry Division utilized helicopters for rapid deployment in the jungle.”
  • “The regiment was converted from traditional horse units to an armored cavalry unit.”
3.noun

A person or group that comes to the rescue of someone in a difficult or desperate situation.

Example Sentences:
  • “We were struggling to finish the project on time until the marketing team arrived like the cavalry.”
  • “Just when it seemed the company would go bankrupt, the cavalry arrived in the form of a new investor.”
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English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “cavalry”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originating in the mid-16th century from the Middle French 'cavalerie', which was borrowed from the Italian 'cavalleria'. This stems from 'cavallo', meaning horse, derived from the Late Latin 'caballus' (pack horse). Historically, it distinguished mounted soldiers from the 'infantry' or foot soldiers.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Remember that 'cavalry' starts with 'cav-', similar to 'caballo' (Spanish for horse). Be careful not to confuse it with 'Calvary', which is a biblical location.

Frequently Asked Questions About “cavalry”

1. What is the meaning of “cavalry” in English?

In English, cavalry (noun) is defined as: “The part of a military force composed of troops that serve on horseback.”.

2. How do you use “cavalry” in a sentence?

“The cavalry led the charge across the open plain during the battle.”

3. What are English synonyms of “cavalry”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “cavalry”?

Originating in the mid-16th century from the Middle French 'cavalerie', which was borrowed from the Italian 'cavalleria'. This stems from 'cavallo', meaning horse, derived from the Late Latin 'caballus' (pack horse). Historically, it distinguished mounted soldiers from the 'infantry' or foot soldiers.