骑兵

骑兵 refers to a military unit of soldiers who fight on horseback. It is distinct from infantry, which consists of foot soldiers, and is often associated with speed, mobility, and shock tactics in historical warfare.

The character 骑 (qí) originally meant 'to ride' or 'on horseback,' while 兵 (bīng) means 'soldier' or 'military.' Together, they form the term for mounted troops, reflecting their historical role as elite warriors.

Historically, cavalry played a crucial role in many armies, especially in China, where it was used in battles for centuries. Today, the term is more symbolic or historical, though it may still appear in literature, films, or military discussions about ancient warfare.