navy

noun

na·​vy ˈnā-vē 

plural navies

1

: a group of ships : fleet

2

: a nation's ships of war and of logistic support

3

often capitalized : the complete naval establishment of a nation including yards, stations, ships, and personnel

4

: a dark grayish purplish blue

Examples of navy in a Sentence

A similar submarine is used by several foreign navies.

a career in the navy

The shirt comes in black, white, and navy.

Recent Examples on the Web

According to Morgan, flowers aren’t just for summer—especially because these outdoor pillow covers feature navy and dark green. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Sep. 2025

This frame is available in five wood tones ranging from a crisp white to a rich navy to best complement your design style and space. —Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 10 Sep. 2025

Think angular jackets and harem pants, tapestry sweaters and day dresses with full skirts in a brown and navy palette. —Ari Stark, Footwear News, 9 Sep. 2025

The Chinese navy helps Beijing expand its military presence and reach around the world. —Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English navie, from Anglo-French, from Latin navigia ships, from navigare

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing navy

• master chief petty officer of the navy
• navy bean
• navy blue
• navy yard

Rhymes for navy

• gravy
• wavy

Kids Definition

navy

noun

na·​vy ˈnā-vē 

plural navies

1

: a fleet of ships

2

: a nation's warships

3

often capitalized : a nation's complete equipment and organization for sea warfare

4

: a dark purplish blue