spahi

noun2

1. •
   An Ottoman (Turkish empire) cavalryman, especially as recruited under a land-based system.

   • I hear that the great Sadiki Bey illustrated a copy of Strange Creatures, commissioned by an Uzbek spahi cavalryman, for only forty gold pieces. — 2001
2. •
   A soldier in a mainly Arab-recruited cavalry (originally horse, later light armored) regiment in French colonial service in (former/ in name still) Ottoman North African provinces.