civilian 1 of 2

noun

Definition of civiliannext
as in noncombatant

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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
The Montreal Gazette later said that the suspect and the civilian also were dead. — Ron Kampeas, Sun Sentinel, 22 June 2026 Officers are told not to fire at moving vehicles except in exigent circumstances that could result in the death of a civilian or an officer. — Josephine Stratman, New York Daily News, 22 June 2026
Adjective
Perhaps the greatest civilian-military controversy erupted in 1951 when President Harry Truman fired General Douglas MacArthur for publicly challenging the administration’s approach to the Korean War. — Missy Ryan, The Atlantic, 10 July 2026 The firm mainly looks at dual-use technologies that could be used in civilian settings, or in warfare. — Anniek Bao, CNBC, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for civilian
Recent Examples of Synonyms for civilian
  1. noncombatant
  2. civil
Noun
  • He wouldn’t be permitted to remain a noncombatant for very long.
    — Matthew Campbell, Bloomberg, 22 May 2026
  • Without going into detail, both treat war as the option of last resort, both try to limit reckless destruction of life and property and both try to minimize injury to noncombatants.
    — Kenneth Seeskin, Chicago Tribune, 11 May 2026
Definition of noncombatant
Adjective
  • Florida's attorney general can collect civil penalties of up to $50,000 per violation, reasonable attorney fees, and court costs, while minors can also pursue up to $10,000 in damages.
    — Chloe Albanesius, PC Magazine, 14 July 2026
  • In light of the clashes, the civil grand jury supported the commission’s push to look for outside representation to enforce its role.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2026
Definition of civil

Browse Nearby Words

civil disobedience
civilian
civilians
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Cite this Entry

“Civilian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/civilian. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on civilian

Nglish: Translation of civilian for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about civilian

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