1. a member of an elite military unit of the Ottoman Empire, typically a foot soldier or bodyguard of the sultan
Usage: historical; also spelled janissary

Examples

• The janisaries were known for their fierce loyalty and strict military discipline.
• Ottoman sultans relied on janisaries to maintain order in the empire.
• The janisary corps was disbanded in the 19th century.
• Janisaries wore distinctive uniforms and tall hats as symbols of their rank.
• European powers feared the military prowess of the janisaries during the Ottoman era.