war
1war
noun, often attributive \ˈwȯr\Definition of WAR
1
a (1) : a state of usually open and declared armed hostile conflict between states or nations (2) : a period of such armed conflict (3) : state of war b : the art or science of warfare c (1) obsolete : weapons and equipment for war (2) archaic : soldiers armed and equipped for war
2
— war·less \-ləs\ adjective
Examples of WAR
- They fought a war over the disputed territory.
- A war broke out when the colonists demanded their independence.
- We need to resolve our conflicts without resorting to war.
- People behave differently during a time of war.
- The taking of American hostages was seen as an act of war by the United States.
- the budget wars in Washington
Origin of WAR
Middle English werre, from Anglo-French werre, guerre, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German werra strife; akin to Old High German werran to confuse
First Known Use: 12th century
Related to WAR
Antonyms: peace
Related Words: civil war, cold war, holy war, limited war, police action, world war; action, battle, engagement, skirmish; combat, fighting, warfare
Near Antonyms: demilitarization, demobilization, disarmament; pacification; cease-fire, truce; calm, peacefulness, tranquillity (or tranquility)
Rhymes with WAR
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