fighter

noun

fight·​er ˈfī-tər How to pronounce fighter (audio)
: one that fights: such as
a(1)
(2)
: a pugnacious or game individual
b
: an airplane of high speed and maneuverability with armament designed to destroy enemy aircraft

Examples of fighter in a Sentence

the debate whether more fighters are needed to bring order to that war-torn country a program at the community center for training local youths as fighters
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.
There's no doubt whoever comes out of this liberal rat race will be sent packing when Iowans re-elect America First fighter Mariannette Miller-Meeks next fall. Andrew Stanton, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 June 2025 Paul followed that loss by getting back in the ring with a former UFC fighter in Nate Diaz. Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025 Critical minerals are used in smartphones, advanced fighter jets and much more. Chinedu Asadu, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2025 Trump thrives in this atmosphere, adopting the role of fighter and savior. Robert B. Reich, Hartford Courant, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for fighter

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fighter was in the 13th century

Cite this Entry

“Fighter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fighter. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

fighter

noun
fight·​er ˈfīt-ər How to pronounce fighter (audio)
: one that fights:
c
: a fast airplane armed with weapons for destroying enemy aircraft

More from Merriam-Webster on fighter

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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