Noncombatant - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Definition:
A person not engaged in fighting during a war, such as a civilian or medical worker.
Synonyms:
civilian, bystander, neutral, unarmed person
Part of Speech:
noun, adjective
Antonyms:
combatant, soldier, warrior
Common Collocations:
protect noncombatants, noncombatant casualties, noncombatant immunity
Derivatives:
noncombatancy, noncombative
Usage Tips:
Use "noncombatant" to describe civilians or unarmed individuals in conflict zones to distinguish them from fighters.
Common Phrases:
civilian noncombatant, innocent noncombatant, noncombatant evacuation
Etymology:
Derived from "non-" (not) + "combatant," originating in the early 19th century to describe those not involved in warfare.
Examples:
- 1. The hospital treats wounded noncombatants caught in the crossfire.
- 2. International law protects noncombatants during armed conflicts.
- 3. Many refugees are noncombatants fleeing violence in their homeland.
- 4. Aid workers are considered noncombatants under the Geneva Convention.