The spelling of "permanent armies" follows the standard English phonetic rules. "Permanent" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable, "per-manent" /pərˈmænənt/. "Armies" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, "ar-mies" /ˈɑːmiz/. The word "permanent" refers to something that is constant or lasting, while "armies" refers to a large group of soldiers organized for war. Together, "permanent armies" refers to a standing, professional military force that remains active regardless of the current state of war or peace.
Permanent armies refer to organized military forces that are established and maintained by a nation-state or a political entity on a long-term or indefinite basis. These armies are composed of professional soldiers or military personnel who are enlisted or contracted to serve the state as a career and are often subject to stringent training and discipline.
The primary characteristic of a permanent army is its continuous presence, ensuring that the state possesses a reliable force capable of defending its interests, maintaining internal security, and projecting power if necessary. Unlike temporary or militia forces, permanent armies are not disbanded or created anew in response to immediate threats or conflicts. Instead, they exist independently of any particular crisis or war, safeguarding the nation-state's security and sovereignty at all times.
Permanent armies are usually financed through the state's budget, allowing for the provision of salaries, benefits, equipment, and infrastructure necessary for the functioning and sustenance of the military. They typically feature a hierarchical command structure, with officers responsible for overseeing the operations and administration of the armed forces.
The size and composition of permanent armies can vary considerably depending on a nation's geopolitical situation, military strategy, and historical context. Some countries maintain large permanent armies capable of waging extensive military campaigns, while others, particularly smaller nations, prioritize a smaller, more specialized force that focuses on defense and support roles.
Permanent armies have been a prevalent and essential feature of nation-states for centuries, representing a fundamental component of a state's ability to protect its interests and maintain security both domestically and internationally.
The etymology of the word "permanent armies" can be broken down as follows:
1. Permanent: The word "permanent" traces back to the Latin word "permanens", which is the present participle of "permanere" meaning "to remain, endure, persist". It is derived from the combination of "per-" (meaning "through") and "manere" (meaning "to stay").
2. Armies: The word "armies" has its roots in the Latin word "armata", which is the plural form of "armatum" meaning "armed". It is derived from the combination of "armare" (meaning "to arm") and the suffix "-ata" (indicating plural form).
Together, "permanent armies" refers to armies that are enduring, lasting, or persisting over time.