/zooh ahv", zwahv/ , n.
1. ( sometimes l.c. ) one of a former body of infantry in the French army, composed originally of Algerians, distinguished for their dash, hardiness, and picturesque Oriental uniform.
2. a member of any body of soldiers adopting a similar dress and drill, esp. a soldier serving in any of certain volunteer regiments in the American Civil War.
[ 1820-30; zawawah, prob. igowawen, the name of a Berber group ]