Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

Zouave

noun Zou·ave \ zü-ˈäv \

Definition of Zouave

1 : a member of a French infantry unit originally composed of Algerians wearing a brilliant uniform and conducting a quick spirited drill
2 : a member of a military unit adopting the dress and drill of the Zouaves

Origin and Etymology of zouave

French, from Arabic dialect (Algeria) Zwāwa, Berber tribal confederation of Kabylia

Learn More about zouave

  1. See words that rhyme with Zouave

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up Zouave? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games