IPA: /əˈkuːtər/
KK: /əˈkuːtər/
To provide someone or something with the necessary clothing or equipment, especially for military purposes.
The soldiers were accoutred in their new uniforms before the parade.
Past: accoutred
Past Participle: accoutred
Accoutre is derived from the Old French word *acoutrer*, which means to equip or outfit. The prefix 'a-' (meaning to) combined with 'couter' (meaning to cut or to equip) indicates the action of preparing or equipping someone with necessary items or gear.
Think of 'equipping' someone with what they need — 'a-' means to, and 'couter' relates to cutting or preparing. This helps you remember that 'accoutre' means to outfit or equip.