master-at-arms

noun

mas·​ter-at-arms ˈma-stər-at-ˈärmz How to pronounce master-at-arms (audio)
plural masters-at-arms
: a petty officer charged with maintaining discipline aboard ship

Word History

First Known Use

1732, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of master-at-arms was in 1732

Dictionary Entries Near master-at-arms

Cite this Entry

“Master-at-arms.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/master-at-arms. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

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