Members of Italy's national gendarmerie force, serving as both military police and civilian law enforcement. They are one of four main Italian police forces with a distinctive role in maintaining public order.
From Italian, derived from 'carabina' (carbine), a type of lightweight firearm. The force was established in 1814 in the Kingdom of Sardinia, originally as mounted riflemen equipped with carbines, hence the name.
The Carabinieri are unique among world police forces - they're technically part of the military but perform civilian duties, and their iconic uniforms and ceremonial roles make them both functional officers and symbols of Italian state authority. Their motto 'Nei secoli fedele' (Faithful through the centuries) reflects their deep historical roots.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.