paramilitary
UK: ˌpærəˈmɪlɪt(ə)ri | US: ˌpærəˈmɪlɪteri
adj. organized similarly to a military force but not part of the official armed forces
n. a member of a paramilitary organization
The term emerged in the early 20th century, combining para- (suggesting a parallel or supplementary role) with military to describe groups operating alongside or in imitation of formal armies. It reflects the blending of civilian and militarized structures, often in contexts like insurgent forces or private security.
The paramilitary group conducted training exercises in the remote forest.
Paramilitary forces were deployed to maintain order during the crisis.
Critics accused the government of supporting paramilitary activities.
The organization operates with paramilitary discipline despite its civilian label.
Paramilitary units often fill security gaps in conflict zones.