nonviolence

noun

non·​vi·​o·​lence ˌnän-ˈvī-ə-lən(t)s 

1

: abstention from violence as a matter of principle

also : the principle of such abstention

2

a

: the quality or state of being nonviolent : avoidance of violence

b

: nonviolent demonstrations for the purpose of securing political ends

Examples of nonviolence in a Sentence

Demonstration organizers are urging nonviolence.

Recent Examples on the Web

King rose to national prominence advocating for nonviolence to achieve civil rights, according to the King Center. —Jalen Williams, Freep.com, 19 Jan. 2026

McCoy said King’s lessons about nonviolence are more important now than ever. —Kelly Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Jan. 2026

The church and other institutions should promote nonviolence in the community as a way of conflict resolution and teach the history of King. —Willie Wilson, Chicago Tribune, 15 Jan. 2026

The Walk for Peace is a multi-state journey through 10 states, with the monks traveling on foot to raise awareness about unity and nonviolence. —Nakell Williams, CBS News, 29 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for nonviolence

• violence

Kids Definition

nonviolence

noun

non·​vi·​o·​lence (ˈ)nän-ˈvī-ə-lən(t)s 

1

: the avoidance of the use of violence as a matter of principle

also : the principle of not using violence to achieve one's goals

2

: nonviolent demonstrations for the purpose of achieving political goals