infantry
UK: ˈɪnfəntri | US: ˈɪnfəntri
n. Soldiers who fight on foot, typically in a ground combat unit.
n. (Historically) A body of young or inexperienced soldiers.
infantry = infant<young> + ry<collective noun suffix>
- infant (from Latin infans "young child, incapable of speech" < in- "not" + fari "to speak")
Reflects the historical use of young or inexperienced soldiers in early armies. - ry (suffix forming collective nouns, from Old French -erie)
Denotes a group or class associated with the root word.
Etymology Origin:
The term infantry originated in the 16th century from Italian infanteria, derived from infante ("youth, foot soldier"), itself from Latin infans. It reflects the medieval practice of recruiting young or low-status fighters for ground combat, contrasting with mounted knights. Over time, it generalized to all foot soldiers, regardless of age or experience.
The infantry advanced through the dense forest under heavy fire.
Modern infantry units are equipped with advanced technology.
In ancient battles, infantry formed the backbone of the army.
He joined the infantry straight out of high school.
The general ordered the infantry to hold their position.