Definition of the word artillery

The word "artillery" originates from the Old French word "artillerie," which means "heavy-armed men" or "heavily armed troops." This term was used during the Middle Ages to describe the infantrymen who fought with heavy weapons, such as crossbows and catapults. Over time, the meaning of the word shifted to refer specifically to large caliber guns and other heavy siege engines used in warfare. By the 16th century, "artillery" referred to any type of weapon that was fired from a fixed position, such as a cannon. Today, the term encompasses a wide range of weapons, from small arms to large caliber artillery pieces, and is used to describe the branch of the military that operates these weapons.