armed forces

plural noun

Definition of armed forces

: the combined military, naval, and air forces of a nation

— called also armed services

Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More about armed forces

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Synonyms for armed forces

Synonyms

colors, military, service, troops

Examples of armed forces in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

During this time, millions of Koreans suffered under military rule, forced labor, and forced conscription into Japan’s armed forces. — Alex Ward, Vox, "BTS, world’s biggest K-pop band, was dropped from Japanese TV over a nuclear bomb T-shirt," 9 Nov. 2018 Female soldiers are more likely than men to experience isolation, as women make up only 16 percent of the armed forces. — Jim Rendon, Marie Claire, "When Female Veterans Return Home," 29 Oct. 2018 On the ground in Syria, armed forces liberated Eastern Ghouta after driving out the remaining armed groups from Douma, the Al Mayadeen television network reported, citing a statement by the Syrian Army. — Andrew J Barden, Bloomberg.com, "Taking Stock of the U.S.-Led Missile Strikes on Syria: Q&A," 14 Apr. 2018 America spends more than 3% of the world’s biggest GDP on its armed forces, and the rest of the Western world scarcely breaks 2%. — Tony Abbott, WSJ, "An Ally Sizes Up Donald Trump," 13 July 2018 Mr Sharif’s return snuffs out any hope of a reconciliation between the PML-N and the armed forces. — The Economist, "Pakistan’s former prime minister embraces jail to rally his party," 12 July 2018 Military officers decided a few months ago to place trucks from the armed forces along main routes to help passengers move around for free. — Gustavo Ocando Alex, miamiherald, "With little public transportation, Venezuelans resort to dangerous, illegal ‘kennels’ to get around," 12 July 2018 Members of the armed forces must be eligible for and able to complete four additional years of service in order to have their transfer approved. — Andrew Dyer, sandiegouniontribune.com, "Pentagon announces changes to Post-9/11 GI Bill," 12 July 2018 The event is sponsored by True Patriots Care, a local organization that recognizes and supports first responders and members of the armed forces. — Michelle Mullins, Elgin Courier-News, "Elgin News Digest: Dueling Pianos to perform in East Dundee, Purple Heart Day barbecue set for Aug. 4, Fox River library board candidates sought, more," 6 July 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'armed forces.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.