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

If pairing a soft shirt with tailored chinos and a crisp blouson, said shirt will likely be sharpest in white, navy, or gray—in that order—but even when adding color, the principle remains: Think beige, taupe, and olive over royal blue and acid yellow. —Simon Crompton, Robb Report, 28 Apr. 2024

The Sleek and Sporty Criss-cross back straps with a scoop neck and contrasting navy trim elevate this clean tennis dress. —Sarah Zendejas, Vogue, 26 Apr. 2024

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

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