Synonyms for

Militias

Verb / mʌˈlɪʃʌz / / mɪˈlɪʃʌz / Another word for militias — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a military force that is raised from the civil population to supplement a regular army in an emergency

Synonyms & similar words

reserves militia army force troop unit brigade division squadron battalion regiment company posse military soldiery paramilitary guerrilla insurgent rebels resistance

Synonyms by register

Formal

paramilitary home guard citizen force

Informal

vigilantes posse gang

Literary

levies militant groups

Antonyms

army navy air force police military state forces

Common collocations

  • local militias
  • armed militias
  • militias fighting
  • militias formed
  • militias disbanded
  • militias attacked
  • militias organized

Word family

noun militia
adjective militant

Usage note

While 'militias' can refer to organized civilian defense forces, it often carries a negative connotation, implying unregulated or potentially hostile armed groups.

Example sentences

  1. The militias were formed to protect their community.
  2. The militias were armed and ready for battle.
  3. The militias were called to action during the war.
  4. The militias were praised for their bravery.
  5. The militias were disbanded after the conflict ended.

Quotes

  • 'A people... who are possessed of the spirit of commerce, who see and who will pursue their advantages may achieve almost anything.' - George Washington
  • 'The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.' - Thomas Jefferson
  • 'A soldier will fight long and hard for a bit of colored ribbon.' - Napoleon Bonaparte

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