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Noncombatant - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

noncombatant

/ˌnɑnˈkɑmbətənt/ /ˌnɒnˈkɒmbətənt/

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.

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