under arms

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

At the same time, the Spartans drilled so incessantly, and were constantly under arms, because they were afraid the Helots would revolt.

From Slate • Jan. 16, 2024

Whether carried under arms or borne in pockets, their presence reflected the love and esteem so many feel for the man who created him.

From BBC • Nov. 14, 2017

The CIA has estimated that, in 2014, the Islamic State had only perhaps 20,000 to 30,000 fighters under arms.

From Salon • May 17, 2016

With at least 20,000 under arms, it is one of the largest rebel armies in Asia.

From New York Times • Dec. 18, 2013

On foot and swiftly he went up toward the stockade where swine were penned in hundreds, and at night the guardian of the swine, the forester, slept under arms on duty for his masters.

From "The Odyssey" by Homer