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belligerent

AdjectiveNoun

This term carries a strong sense of active confrontation. When describing a person's temperament, it suggests a provocative, eager-to-fight attitude that goes beyond simple anger to include a desire for conflict. In legal and diplomatic contexts, the word shifts from a personality trait to a formal status. It identifies a state or entity that is officially recognized as a party to a war, distinguishing them from neutral parties in an international conflict.

Meanings

Adjective

[~ (about someone)][~ (about behavior)]

Hostile and aggressive; inclined to fight or argue.

"The drunk customer became belligerent when the bartender refused to serve him more alcohol."

Adjective

[~ (about a nation or party)]

Engaged in a war or conflict, especially in a formal or legal sense.

"The treaty was signed by all the belligerent powers to ensure a lasting peace in the region."

Noun

"The international community provided humanitarian aid to the civilians caught between the two belligerents."

Last Updated: June 14, 2026•Report an Error