belligerent Definition
- 1hostile and aggressive, ready to start a fight or go to war
- 2engaged in a war or conflict, as recognized by international law
Using belligerent: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "belligerent" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The belligerent tone of his voice made it clear that he was not interested in a peaceful resolution.
Example
The two belligerent nations have been at war for years.
Example
He was fired for his belligerent behavior towards his colleagues.
Example
The drunk man became belligerent and started a fight.
belligerent Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for belligerent
Phrases with belligerent
belligerent powers
countries or groups engaged in a war or conflict
Example
The treaty was signed by all belligerent powers.
an aggressive and confrontational approach towards others
Example
His belligerent attitude towards his coworkers made it difficult to work with him.
a hostile and threatening way of speaking
Example
The belligerent tone of his voice made everyone in the room uncomfortable.
Origins of belligerent
from Latin 'bellum gerere', meaning 'to wage war'
Summary: belligerent in Brief
The term 'belligerent' [bəˈlɪdʒərənt] describes someone or something that is hostile, aggressive, and ready to fight. It can refer to a person's attitude or behavior, as in 'He was fired for his belligerent behavior towards his colleagues,' or to countries or groups engaged in a war or conflict, as in 'The treaty was signed by all belligerent powers.' Synonyms include 'combative' and 'bellicose,' while antonyms include 'friendly' and 'peaceful.'
