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The Collaborative International Dictionary
In arms

Arms \Arms\, n. pl. [OE. armes, F. arme, pl. armes, fr. L. arma, pl., arms, orig. fittings, akin to armus shoulder, and E. arm. See Arm, n.]

  1. Instruments or weapons of offense or defense.

    He lays down his arms, but not his wiles.
    --Milton.

    Three horses and three goodly suits of arms.
    --Tennyson.

  2. The deeds or exploits of war; military service or science. ``Arms and the man I sing.''
    --Dryden.

  3. (Law) Anything which a man takes in his hand in anger, to strike or assault another with; an aggressive weapon.
    --Cowell. Blackstone.

  4. (Her.) The ensigns armorial of a family, consisting of figures and colors borne in shields, banners, etc., as marks of dignity and distinction, and descending from father to son.

  5. (Falconry) The legs of a hawk from the thigh to the foot.
    --Halliwell.

    Bred to arms, educated to the profession of a soldier.

    In arms, armed for war; in a state of hostility.

    Small arms, portable firearms known as muskets, rifles, carbines, pistols, etc.

    A stand of arms, a complete set for one soldier, as a musket, bayonet, cartridge box and belt; frequently, the musket and bayonet alone.

    To arms! a summons to war or battle.

    Under arms, armed and equipped and in readiness for battle, or for a military parade.

    Arm's end,

    Arm's length,

    Arm's reach. See under Arm.

Usage examples of "in arms".

There was one suckling infant in arms, no young children, and no elderly.