passive resistance

noun

: resistance especially to a government or an occupying power characterized mainly by noncooperation

Examples of passive resistance 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.
Stephanie Wambugu on lateness as an act of passive resistance. Literary Hub, 1 May 2026 Yes, refusing to show ID when you are legally obligated to do so can be considered passive resistance, leading to a class 1 misdemeanor under Arizona Statute 13-2508 in extreme cases. Paige Moore, AZCentral.com, 23 Apr. 2026 And with facial recognition capabilities on the horizon, there’s a compelling argument to be made for less-than-passive resistance to the sleazy new devices. Joe Wilkins, Futurism, 25 Feb. 2026 Warning signs show up as passive resistance, decision paralysis, blame shifting, and quiet disengagement. C200, Forbes.com, 24 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for passive resistance

Word History

First Known Use

1779, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of passive resistance was in 1779

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Cite this Entry

“Passive resistance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/passive%20resistance. Accessed 15 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

passive resistance

noun
: resistance especially to a government or an occupying power characterized mainly by noncooperation

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