armed

Armed is an adjective that means equipped with or carrying weapons, or prepared for the use of weapons. The word comes from arm, meaning to provide with weapons, with the participial suffix -ed; in English, it is used in a range of legal, military, and everyday contexts to indicate weapon readiness or possession.

Common uses include armed forces, the national military; armed conflict, referring to hostilities between organized groups; armed robbery, a crime in which a weapon is used; and armed personnel such as armed guards and armed police, who are authorized to carry firearms or other weapons in the line of duty. The term can also describe individuals who are legally carrying a weapon for self-defense or occupational duties, depending on jurisdiction.

Legal and regulatory aspects vary by country. Laws typically address who may arm themselves, which weapons are permitted, how weapons may be carried, and where carrying is allowed. Licensing, background checks, training requirements, and secure storage are common elements. Violations can carry charges ranging from possession of a prohibited weapon to crimes involving threat or use of force.

In usage, armed contrasts with unarmed and conveys heightened risk or preparedness. In journalism and policy discourse, references to "armed groups," "armed forces," or "armed conflict" signal the presence or potential for violence, and can affect assessments of security and humanitarian considerations.

Related terms include armament, weaponry, firearms, and weapon possession.