Zouave

noun

Zou·ave zü-ˈäv

1

: a member of a French infantry unit originally composed of Algerians wearing a brilliant uniform and conducting a quick spirited drill

2

: a member of a military unit adopting the dress and drill of the Zouaves

Word History

Etymology

French, from Arabic dialect (Algeria) Zwāwa, Berber tribal confederation of Kabylia

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of Zouave was in 1844

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Browse Nearby Words

Zotzil

Zouave

zouave pants

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Zouave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Zouave. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

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