01 n. pl. Instruments or weapons of offense or defense.
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2.
The deeds or exploits of war; military service or science.
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3.
Anything which a man takes in his hand in anger, to strike or assault another with; an aggressive weapon.(Law)
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4.
The ensigns armorial of a family, consisting of figures and colors borne in shields, banners, etc., as marks of dignity and distinction, and descending from father to son.(Her.)
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5.
The legs of a hawk from the thigh to the foot.(Falconry)
Phrases & compounds
Bred to arms —
educated to the profession of a soldier.
In arms —
armed for war; in a state of hostility.
Small arms —
portable firearms known as muskets, rifles, carbines, pistols, etc.
A stand of arms —
a complete set for one soldier, as a musket, bayonet, cartridge box and belt; frequently, the musket and bayonet alone.
To arms —
! a summons to war or battle.
Under arms —
armed and equipped and in readiness for battle, or for a military parade.
Arm's end —
See under Arm.