1. Soldiers or guards armed with a halberd (a medieval weapon combining an axe, pike, and hook on a long shaft).
Usage: plural form; historical; often used in reference to ceremonial or historical military units

Examples

• The Swiss halberdiers were renowned for their skill and discipline in medieval warfare.
• Ceremonial halberdiers in full armor stood guard at the palace entrance.
• Historical records describe the halberdiers as elite infantry units of the Renaissance.
• The museum displayed armor and weapons belonging to the famous halberdiers of the 15th century.
• Halberdiers formed the backbone of many European armies during the late medieval period.