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nonlethal

adjective

non·​le·​thal ˌnän-ˈlē-thəl How to pronounce nonlethal (audio)
Synonyms of nonlethalnext
: not lethal : not capable of causing death
a nonlethal gas
nonlethal weapons
a nonlethal dose of venom

Examples of nonlethal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Staff at the prison — also known as New Folsom — responded with chemical agents, warning shots and nonlethal weapons to regain control. Sacbee.com, 11 Nov. 2025 There are effective, nonlethal methods for keeping bears away from humans, such as public education, electric fencing, bear-resistant garbage containers and removal of roadkill and dead livestock. Benjamin Larue, The Conversation, 31 Oct. 2025 If tumors are small enough to be considered nonlethal, doctors should work with patients to monitor and continually assess their risk. Kaan Ozcan, NBC news, 30 Sep. 2025 The group recognizes the need to control invasive species, but prefers nonlethal methods of control. Lauren Sommer, NPR, 15 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nonlethal

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nonlethal was in 1625

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Cite this Entry

“Nonlethal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonlethal. Accessed 5 Dec. 2025.

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