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 Navy : 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

Suits that do sell tend to be formal, many in navy or a light monochrome for summer, and tuxedos, whereas 10 years ago, chalk stripes and Glen plaid were popular. — David Moin, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2026

The ministry said they would be sent back safely on two Myanmar navy warships and a hospital ship. — ABC News, 29 Sep. 2026

Cully wore a Double RL pinstripe double-breasted navy suit with a bolo tie and suede Double RL boots for the welcome night, and a Ralph Lauren Purple Label peak-lapel tuxedo for the wedding. — Alexandra MacOn, Vogue, 28 Sep. 2026

In 2024, Japan’s navy also transited the Taiwan Strait for the first time, and Tokyo procured 400 Tomahawk cruise missiles from the United States. — David Sacks, Foreign Affairs, 28 Sep. 2026

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