belligerent
|bel/lig/er/ent|
C1
/bəˈlɪdʒərənt/
hostile and aggressive
Etymology
Etymology Information
'belligerent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'belligerans,' where 'bellum' meant 'war' and 'gerere' meant 'to wage.'
Historical Evolution
'belligerans' transformed into the French word 'belligerant,' and eventually became the modern English word 'belligerent' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'waging war,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'hostile and aggressive.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a nation or person engaged in war or conflict, as recognized by international law.
The belligerents signed a ceasefire agreement.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35