What does munition mean?
A munition is a weapon, projectile, or other military supply intended for use in warfare, especially ammunition for firearms or artillery. In contemporary usage, the plural form 'munitions' is especially common and can refer collectively to weapons, ammunition, and related military supplies. The word may therefore describe both an individual item, such as a shell, and a broader supply system, as in 'munitions factory' or 'munitions depot'. Its associations are strongly military and formal, so it is less common in ordinary domestic or technical contexts than words such as 'ammunition' or 'weapons'. In figurative use, 'munitions' can refer to resources or means used to achieve an end, though this is less frequent. The word derives through French from Latin, where it originally related to fortification and military preparation.
nounA weapon, projectile, or other military supply used in warfare, especially ammunition. The word is also used collectively for military weapons and ammunition, particularly in the plural.
- Weapons, ammunition, and other military supplies used in warfare.
- A particular weapon or projectile used in warfare, especially in formal or historical usage.
"The troops were issued fresh ammunition for the night patrol."
"The factory produced munitions for armies across the region."
"The old fort was designed to protect the city against enemy munitions."
The usual plural form, used especially when referring collectively to weapons, ammunition, and other military supplies.
"The government increased spending on military munitions."
A single word can cover everything from bullets and shells to the broader stores and equipment of war.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does munition come from?
The word entered English in the late Middle English period through French munition, from Latin munitio, meaning a fortification or the act of fortifying. Latin munitio was derived from munire, 'to fortify or defend', itself associated with murus, 'wall'. The English word initially developed in the broader context of military defence and stores before becoming especially associated with weapons and ammunition. Related Latin-derived words include muniment and munify.
Related word forms
How munition is actually used
In modern English, the plural 'munitions' is much more common than the singular when referring collectively to military weapons or supplies. The word has a formal, military register and is often associated with organised warfare or industrial production.
Easily confused with munition
A munition is a military weapon or supply, whereas a muniment is chiefly a fortification, defensive work, or means of support.
Ammunition denotes the ammunition used by weapons, while munition can refer more broadly to weapons and military supplies.