Hordes

/hɔrdz/ noun

Definition

Very large groups or crowds of people or animals, often suggesting they are moving together.

Etymology

From Turkic 'ordu' meaning 'camp' or 'military camp,' possibly from Mongolian origins. The word entered European languages through contact with Mongol and Tatar groups, first appearing in English around the 16th century to describe large warrior groups.

Kelly Says

The word 'hordes' comes directly from the Mongol Empire's military organization—when Europeans saw these massive unified armies crossing the steppes, they borrowed the Mongol word to describe such frightening numbers of coordinated warriors.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.