CIVILIAN Synonyms: 24 Similar and Opposite Words

civilian 1 of 2

noun

Definition of civilian next

as in noncombatant

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noncombatant

Dissimilar Words

civilian

2 of 2

adjective

as in civil

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of civilian

Noun

More than six hundred civilians were killed in Ukraine last year by long-range munitions (Shaheds and missiles), and some forty-five hundred people were injured. —

Ed Caesar, New Yorker, 25 May 2026 According to deputies, the suspect struggled briefly with deputies before a nearby civilian helped officers take him into custody. —

Reeti Malhotra updated May 20, Sacbee.com, 20 May 2026

Adjective

Ţoiu said the drone was believed to be part of a larger Russian attack targeting Ukrainian civilian infrastructure near the Danube River. —

Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 2 June 2026 The vast majority must be recruited from the approximately 180,000 students and residents in civilian programs. —

Robert Krasner, STAT, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for civilian

Recent Examples of Synonyms for civilian

Noun

War reporters access frontlines, cultivate sources, gather a wide range of perspectives (from authorities, noncombatants, and expert observers), and share their news with audiences all over the world.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 20 Apr. 2026
For an unaffiliated voter and political noncombatant like me, a Californian who deeply cares about my home state, the bright side is this: At least people are finally paying attention to the governor’s race.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 14 Apr. 2026