Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkavəlrē/

Definitions

• Cavalry (noun): A branch of an army composed of soldiers who fight on horseback, typically used in battle for rapid maneuvering and scouting.
• Cavalry (noun): A group or force of soldiers or vehicles, especially those that perform a mobile function in military operations.
• Cavalry (noun): A historical term used to describe mounted soldiers, particularly during the early modern period or pre-industrial military organizations.

Usage Examples

• The cavalry charged down the hill, creating a dramatic shift in the battle.
• In ancient wars, the cavalry played a critical role in outflanking the enemy.
• The modern cavalry uses armored vehicles instead of horses for speed and protection.

Etymology

The word 'cavalry' comes from the French word 'cavalerie,' which is derived from 'cavalier' meaning 'horseman.' The term 'cavalier' originates from the Latin word 'caballarius,' which refers to a horseman or a person who rides a horse. Historically, the cavalry evolved to denote soldiers mounted on horseback who played an essential role in warfare, particularly in the medieval and early modern periods.

Synonyms

• Horsemen
• Mounted troops
• Troopers
• Calvary (alternative spelling)
• Dragoon

Antonyms

• Infantry
• Foot soldiers
• Ground troops

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

While the pronunciation of 'cavalry' is relatively standard, some regions may stress the first syllable ('CAV-al-ree') while others place less emphasis on it. In some parts of the U.S., the word is colloquially pronounced as 'cav-ree,' omitting the 'al' sound altogether.

Historical Usage

The cavalry has been an essential part of warfare since ancient times, playing a significant role in battles, particularly during the Middle Ages. Cavalry units were used for reconnaissance, flanking movements, and delivering decisive charges on the battlefield. The importance of cavalry decreased with the advent of tanks and mechanized infantry in the 20th century, though some armies still maintain mounted units for ceremonial purposes.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of 'cavalry' extends beyond just military use. In many cultures, the image of a cavalryman or cavalrywoman has become symbolic of strength, honor, and chivalry. In literature and film, cavalry units are often portrayed as heroic figures charging into battle, representing nobility and bravery. The historical notion of knights on horseback is deeply tied to the concept of the cavalry in European history.

More Information

The evolution of cavalry forces has closely followed the technological advancements in warfare. In the modern military context, cavalry is now often symbolized by mechanized units that perform similar functions to their historical counterparts but with motorized vehicles. Despite this transformation, the image of the horse-mounted soldier remains a powerful and evocative symbol of military tradition across various cultures.