hussar: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Historical, Military
Quick answer
What does “hussar” mean?
A member of a light cavalry regiment, originally Hungarian, known for flamboyant uniform.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A member of a light cavalry regiment, originally Hungarian, known for flamboyant uniform.
A historical soldier of a specific type of cavalry; can be used metaphorically to describe someone with a dashing, flamboyant, or romantic military style.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The word is equally historical/specialised in both varieties.
Connotations
In both, it connotes history, bravery, and a distinctive ornate uniform (braiding, fur pelisse, etc.).
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both varieties, encountered almost exclusively in historical/military contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “hussar” in a Sentence
[Hussar] + [of + Regiment/Country]Adjective + [hussar]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “hussar” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- (Not standard; extremely rare or poetic. No established verb form.)
American English
- (Not standard; extremely rare or poetic. No established verb form.)
adverb
British English
- (Not used.)
American English
- (Not used.)
adjective
British English
- The actress wore a hussar-style jacket for the premiere.
- He had a somewhat hussar-like moustache.
American English
- The fashion line featured hussar-inspired braiding.
- She admired the hussar detailing on the uniform.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in historical and military studies contexts.
Everyday
Very rarely used, except in metaphorical or descriptive fashion contexts ('that jacket has a hussar look').
Technical
Used precisely in military history to denote a specific type of cavalry and its evolution.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “hussar”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “hussar”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hussar”
- Spelling: 'husser', 'huzar'. Pronunciation: stressing the first syllable /ˈhʌsɑː/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A knight is a medieval heavy cavalry warrior of aristocratic status, while a hussar is a specific type of light cavalryman from the early modern period onwards, known for speed and reconnaissance.
No, not in a literal sense. It is a historical designation. Some modern regiments retain the name for traditional reasons, but they no longer function as classic light cavalry.
The elaborate uniforms (braiding, fur, tall hats) served to boost morale, intimidate the enemy, and display unit pride and national identity. Practicality was often secondary to psychological impact and tradition.
No, it is a low-frequency, specialised word. Most English speakers will recognise it but will seldom use it outside discussions of history, military fashion, or in metaphorical expressions.
A member of a light cavalry regiment, originally Hungarian, known for flamboyant uniform.
Hussar is usually formal, historical, military in register.
Hussar: in British English it is pronounced /hʊˈzɑː/, and in American English it is pronounced /həˈzɑːr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Dress up like a hussar”
- “Charge like a hussar (metaphorical for a reckless/dashing action)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'HUSS-le the enemy with a sabre from horseback, looking posh with a HUSSy uniform.' (Historical Hungarian Soldier).
Conceptual Metaphor
A HUSSAR IS A FLAMBOYANT WARRIOR (mapping military function to visual spectacle and romantic dash).
Practice
Quiz
In which of these contexts is the word 'hussar' MOST likely to be used accurately?