belligerency

noun

bel·​lig·​er·​en·​cy bə-ˈlij-rən(t)-sē How to pronounce belligerency (audio)
-ˈli-jə-
1
: the state of being at war or in conflict
specifically : the status of a legally recognized belligerent state or nation
2

Examples of belligerency in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Furthermore, pursuant to Additional Protocol I, Article 47(1), mercenaries do not qualify as combatants, and as such, cannot benefit from the privilege of belligerency. Dr. Ewelina U. Ochab, Forbes, 12 June 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'belligerency.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1815, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of belligerency was in 1815

Dictionary Entries Near belligerency

Cite this Entry

“Belligerency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/belligerency. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

belligerency

noun
bel·​lig·​er·​en·​cy bə-ˈlij-(ə-)rən-sē How to pronounce belligerency (audio)
1
: the state of being at war
2

Legal Definition

belligerency

noun
bel·​lig·​er·​en·​cy bə-ˈli-jə-rən-sē How to pronounce belligerency (audio)
: the state of being at war or in conflict
specifically : the status whereby a recognized military force is granted the protection of the international laws of war

More from Merriam-Webster on belligerency

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