Meaning & Definition of word "Nonviolence"

Nonviolence

/nɒnˈvaɪələns/

noun:

  • 1. The practice of avoiding violence, particularly in political or social protest, and advocating for change through peaceful means.
    • Example: Gandhi's approach to civil rights was rooted in the principle of nonviolence.
  • 2. The state or condition of being nonviolent or the philosophy that promotes abstaining from violent action.
    • Example: The movement’s commitment to nonviolence was evident in its peaceful demonstrations.
  • 3. A strategy for social change that emphasizes peaceful protest and civil disobedience rather than violent confrontation.
    • Example: Nonviolence as a strategy proved effective in achieving legislative reforms.

Etymology

The term nonviolence combines 'non-' meaning 'not' with 'violence,' traceable to Latin 'violentia' meaning 'vehemence, impetuosity.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

satyagraha:

A policy of passive resistance initiated by Mahatma Gandhi as a means of protest.

peaceful protest:

A demonstration where participants seek to make a statement without engaging in violence.

civil disobedience:

The active refusal to obey certain laws as a form of peaceful protest.

Related Words

pacifism:

The belief that war and violence are unjustifiable.

peacekeeping:

The active maintenance of a ceasefire in an inflamed situation.

restorative justice:

An approach to justice focusing on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims.

Slang Meanings of nonviolence

Meaning: peace out

Example Sentence: The activists decided to peace out and hold a nonviolent rally.

Meaning: go gentle

Example Sentence: In a heated debate, she said we should just go gentle to maintain nonviolence.