Meaning & Definition of word "Belligerent"

Belligerent

/bəˈlɪdʒ.ər.ənt/

noun:

  • 1. a nation or person engaged in conflict or war.
    • Example: The treaty was signed by several belligerents to bring peace to the region.

adjective:

  • 1. characterized by hostility and aggression; inclined to fight.
    • Example: The belligerent nations refused to settle their disputes through diplomacy.
  • 2. engaged in war or conflict.
    • Example: The belligerent forces clashed on the battlefield, marking the start of a long conflict.

Etymology

From Latin 'belligerare' meaning 'to wage war' (from 'bellum' meaning 'war' and 'gerere' meaning 'to carry').

Common Phrases and Expressions

belligerent attitude:

a demeanor marked by hostility or readiness to fight

belligerent nations:

countries involved in conflict or warfare

belligerent forces:

military groups actively engaged in combat

Related Words

belligerence:

the quality of being hostile or aggressive

rebellion:

an act of violent or open resistance to an established government or ruler

combatant:

a person or group that engages in conflict or warfare

Slang Meanings of belligerent

Meaning: fighting words

Example Sentence: He always uses fighting words when he's belligerent.

Meaning: ready to throw down

Example Sentence: After the argument, he was ready to throw down.