DictionaryarmEquip for defense or attack
verb

arm

To equip with weapons or means of protection.

The guards arm themselves before taking their posts.

Etymology

The Latin verb means to equip with weapons. English keeps that literal sense and extends it to supplying other means of defense or effective action.

More examples

  • The village had armed its defenders.
  • She armed herself with facts before the debate.
  • The program is arming students with practical skills.

Forms

arm · arms · armed · arming

armament noun — Weapons and military equipment

Similar words

equip
A broader verb that does not necessarily involve weapons.
supply
Broader; does not specifically imply weapons or protection.