militancy

noun

mil·​i·​tan·​cy ˈmi-lə-tən(t)-sē 

: the quality or state of being militant

Synonyms of militancy

• aggression
• aggressiveness
• hostility
• militance

Examples of militancy in a Sentence

the militancy of the radical organization gave the authorities cause for concern

Recent Examples on the Web

But she was criticized for her increasing militancy, even within her African National Congress party. —Kate Bartlett, NPR, 2 May 2026

This meditative portrait pairs humane narration with contemporary Japanese landscapes, exploring the quiet tensions between aging, political militancy and time itself. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 1 May 2026

Pakistan, a nation more frequently making international headlines for its heightened militancy and shaky economy, is hosting the first direct talks between Washington and Tehran, working to end a weeks-long war that has left thousands dead and sent shockwaves across the globe. —Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 9 Apr. 2026

Through such moves, the line between state security apparatus and settler militancy has become virtually indistinguishable. —Arie Perliger, The Conversation, 7 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

militancy

noun

mil·​i·​tan·​cy ˈmil-ə-tən-sē 

: the quality or state of being militant