Zouave

noun Zou·ave \zü-ˈäv\

Definition of ZOUAVE

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

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

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

First Known Use: 1844

Next Word in the Dictionary: zouave pantsPrevious Word in the Dictionary: ZotzilAll Words Near: Zouave

What made you want to look up Zouave? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears