züˈäv, -ˈȧv, ˈ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷, ˈzwäv, ˈzwȧv noun
( -s )
Usage: usually capitalized
Etymology: French, from Berber Zwāwa, tribe of Kabyles in the Djurdjura mountains, Algeria
1. : one of a body of French infantry originally composed of Algerians that is characterized by a colorful uniform of gaiters, baggy trousers, short and open-fronted jacket, and usually tasseled cap or turban and by very quick and spirited drill
2. : a member of a body of soldiers (as a volunteer regiment in the army of the United States in the Civil War) adopting the dress and drill of the Zouaves