nonviolent

adjective

non·​vi·​o·​lent ˌnän-ˈvī-ə-lənt How to pronounce nonviolent (audio)
Synonyms of nonviolentnext
: abstaining or free from violence
nonviolently adverb

Examples of nonviolent in a Sentence

He argued that nonviolent drug offenders should receive shorter sentences.
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.
Organizers also have said the protests are meant to be nonviolent and discouraged bringing weapons of any kind. Alex Gladden, Oklahoman, 28 Mar. 2026 Communicating the nonviolent nature of these movements is important to avoid any pretext for additional crackdowns. John Shattuck, The Conversation, 27 Mar. 2026 Their crimes ranged from nonviolent drug offenses to bribery and fraud. Nick Penzenstadler, USA Today, 10 Mar. 2026 Organizers emphasized that they are trained in deescalation and the event is meant to be a nonviolent protest. Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for nonviolent

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nonviolent was in 1905

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Cite this Entry

“Nonviolent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonviolent. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

nonviolent

adjective
non·​vi·​o·​lent (ˈ)nän-ˈvī-ə-lənt How to pronounce nonviolent (audio)
1
: not using violence : peaceful
2
: of, relating to, or marked by nonviolence
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