Pacifist

/ˈpæsɪfɪst/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who believes that war and violence are unjustifiable and who advocates for peaceful resolutions to conflicts.
As a pacifist, she dedicated her life to promoting non-violent protest and peaceful negotiations.
A person who opposes the use of force under any circumstances.
His strong pacifist beliefs made it difficult for him to support military intervention.
An advocate or supporter of pacifism.
The organization was made up of committed pacifists who sought to eliminate all forms of violence.
adjective
Relating to or characterized by pacifism; advocating or promoting peaceful resolution over conflict.
The pacifist approach to diplomacy is often more effective in achieving long-term peace.
Opposed to war or violence.
His pacifist ideals guided his actions during the protest.

Etymology

From the Latin 'pacificus', meaning peaceful, and the suffix '-ist' to denote a person who practices or advocates for that quality.

Common Phrases and Expressions

make peace:
To bring about a resolution to conflict or hostility.
peaceful protest:
Demonstrations conducted without violence.
turn the other cheek:
To respond to aggression by remaining peaceful and not retaliating.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Flower child
Back in the 60s, many flower children were known for their pacifist beliefs.
Tree hugger
Some people see pacifists as tree huggers, focusing on environmental peace.