English Lexicon

Sepoy

/ˈseɪ.pɔɪ/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #15000 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    An Indian soldier, especially one serving in the British army during the colonial period.

    "The sepoy played a crucial role in the military campaigns of the British Empire in India."
  2. 2

    A member of a military unit in India, particularly during the 19th century.

    "The sepoys were often involved in significant historical events, such as the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'sepoy' originates from the Persian word 'sipāhī', meaning 'soldier'. It was adopted into English during the 18th century, primarily in the context of the British East India Company's army, where it referred to Indian soldiers serving under British command.

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