Word: Man-at-arms
Definition:
A "man-at-arms" is a noun that refers to a heavily armed and mounted soldier from medieval times. These soldiers were typically part of the nobility or knights and were trained to fight in battles, often on horseback.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "man-at-arms" when discussing historical topics about medieval warfare, chivalry, or the social structure of that time. It is not a common term in everyday conversation today.
Example Sentence:
"The king's army was led by a brave man-at-arms, who rode at the front of the charging knights."
Advanced Usage:
In literature or historical texts, "man-at-arms" can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is courageous or skilled in battle-like situations, even outside of the medieval context.
Word Variants:
- Men-at-arms: This is the plural form, used when referring to more than one man-at-arms. - Knight: Although not exactly the same, a knight is a specific type of man-at-arms who has been formally inducted into the chivalric order.
Different Meanings:
In a broader sense, "man-at-arms" might also refer to any soldier or warrior, but it is most commonly associated with the medieval context.
Synonyms:
- Soldier - Knight - Warrior - Combatant
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "man-at-arms," you might come across phrases like "man of war," which generally refers to someone who is skilled or involved in warfare.
Summary:
"Man-at-arms" is a term used to describe a soldier from medieval times who was heavily armed and typically rode on horseback.