arms

arms · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Plural of arm; the upper limbs of the body from shoulder to hand.

  2. 2.

    Weapons and ammunition; armaments.

  3. 3.

    Heraldic devices or emblems.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    coat of arms — A heraldic design symbolizing a family or institution.
  • •
    arms race — Competition between nations to accumulate weapons.
  • •
    up in arms — Angry and protesting.
  • •
    bear arms — Carry or possess weapons.
  • •
    take up arms — Prepare for armed conflict.
  • •
    lay down one's arms — Surrender; stop fighting.
  • •
    a call to arms — A summons to prepare for battle.

Related words

See also: arm, armed, armor, weapon
Synonyms: armaments, limbs, weapons

Etymology

Body part: From Old English earm, plural earmas. Weapons: From Old French armes, from Latin arma ("weapons, tools of war").