in arms

Arms \Arms\, n. pl. [OE. armes, F. arme, pl. armes, fr. L. arma,
   pl., arms, orig. fittings, akin to armus shoulder, and E.
   arm. See {Arm}, n.]
   1. Instruments or weapons of offense or defense.
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            He lays down his arms, but not his wiles. --Milton.
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            Three horses and three goodly suits of arms.
                                                  --Tennyson.
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   2. The deeds or exploits of war; military service or science.
      "Arms and the man I sing." --Dryden.
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   3. (Law) Anything which a man takes in his hand in anger, to
      strike or assault another with; an aggressive weapon.
      --Cowell. Blackstone.
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   4. (Her.) The ensigns armorial of a family, consisting of
      figures and colors borne in shields, banners, etc., as
      marks of dignity and distinction, and descending from
      father to son.
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   5. (Falconry) The legs of a hawk from the thigh to the foot.
      --Halliwell.
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   {Bred to arms}, educated to the profession of a soldier.

   {In arms}, armed for war; in a state of hostility.

   {Small arms}, portable firearms known as muskets, rifles,
      carbines, pistols, etc.

   {A stand of arms}, a complete set for one soldier, as a
      musket, bayonet, cartridge box and belt; frequently, the
      musket and bayonet alone.

   {To arms}! a summons to war or battle.

   {Under arms}, armed and equipped and in readiness for battle,
      or for a military parade.
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   {Arm's end},

   {Arm's length},

   {Arm's reach}. See under {Arm}.
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