nonlethal

adjective

non·​le·​thal ˌnän-ˈlē-thəl How to pronounce nonlethal (audio)
Synonyms of nonlethalnext
: not lethal : not capable of causing death
a nonlethal gas
nonlethal weapons
a nonlethal dose of venom

Examples of nonlethal in a Sentence

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.
Since the decision, residents and conservationists around the country have rallied around the geese, urging the HOA to reconsider the cull and find nonlethal measures to control the population. Drew Pittock, USA Today, 16 June 2026 Pearson said any bear problems should be promptly reported to Fish and Game, as early interventions can increase the chances that the agency can remove the bear by nonlethal methods. Nicole Blanchard, Idaho Statesman, 15 June 2026 Last year, the state issued 158 nonlethal and 62 lethal permits, with 19 lions actually killed. May 30, Sacbee.com, 30 May 2026 Those nonlethal management methods reduced the risk of depredation but were not 100% successful, said Ethan Kohn, a wildlife damage specialist. Elise Schmelzer, Denver Post, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for nonlethal

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nonlethal was in 1625

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Cite this Entry

“Nonlethal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonlethal. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.

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