As a noun, it is a group of vehicles, ships, or people traveling together, often with protection. As a verb, it means to travel with and guard someone or something on a journey.
From French *convoi* 'escort, convoy', from Old French *conveier* 'to escort', related to English *convey* from Latin *conviare* 'to accompany on the way'. It has long been used in military and shipping contexts.
Convoys are like moving shields—groups travel together so they’re harder to attack. In World War II, merchant ships crossed the ocean in convoys to reduce the risk from submarines. The idea survives today in military convoys and even in everyday police escorts for VIPs.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.