horse-guards

Definition
  1. Noun (plural):
    • Bodyguard unit: "horse-guards" refers to a ceremonial cavalry unit that serves as a personal guard to the British monarch, specifically the Household Cavalry.
    • Military headquarters: In historical usage, "horse-guards" also denotes the former headquarters of the British Army, located in Whitehall, London.
Usage Examples

  • Bodyguard unit:

    • The horse-guards paraded through the streets during the royal celebration. (The cavalry guard performed a ceremonial march.)
    • Visitors to London often watch the changing of the horse-guards at Horse Guards Parade. (Tourists observe the formal guard ceremony.)

  • Military headquarters:

    • The generals met at the horse-guards to plan the campaign. (The senior officers gathered at the British Army's central command.)
Advanced Usage

  • "Horse Guards Parade": a large parade ground adjacent to the building, used for official ceremonies.

    • The annual Trooping the Colour takes place on Horse Guards Parade. (The military ceremony is held at this location.)

  • "to be on horse-guards duty": to serve as a member of the cavalry guard.

    • The soldier was assigned to horse-guards duty for the state visit. (He was tasked with guarding the monarch during the event.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Horse guard (n, singular): an individual member of the cavalry guard.

    • Each horse guard wore a distinctive uniform with a plumed helmet. (A single guard displayed traditional attire.)

  • Horse Guard (n, proper noun): the building or institution itself.

    • The Horse Guard in Whitehall is a historic landmark. (The building is a notable site.)
Synonyms
  • Cavalry guard: a mounted military unit tasked with protection.
  • Royal guard: a guard assigned to protect a monarch.
Related Idioms

  • "to ride with the horse-guards": (historical) to be associated with the highest military command.

    • He was a trusted advisor who rode with the horse-guards during the war. (He worked closely with the army's leadership.)

  • "to be under the horse-guards' watch": to be under the protection or scrutiny of the cavalry guard.

    • The palace was under the horse-guards' watch throughout the night. (The guards monitored the palace security.)