The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Mat'eriel \Ma`t['e]`ri`el"\, n. [F. See Material.]
Those objects in a complex system which constitute the
materials, or instruments employed, in distinction from the
personnel, or men; for example, the buildings, libraries, and
apparatus of a college, in distinction from its officers; --
used in a collective sense.
[1913 Webster]
2. Specifically: (Military) The arms, munitions, baggage,
equipment, provisions, etc., of an army.
[1913 Webster]