havildar

noun

hav·​il·​dar

ˈhavəlˌdär

plural -s

: a noncommissioned officer in the Indian army corresponding to a sergeant

Word History

Etymology

Hindi ḥawāldār, from Arabic ḥawāla charge + Persian dār having

First Known Use

1698, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now