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noncombatant

noun

Definition of noncombatantnext
as in civilian

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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 noncombatant The charges follow a military report released in 2020 that found evidence that elite Australian SAS and commando regiment troops unlawfully killed 39 Afghan prisoners, farmers and other noncombatants. — ABC News, 7 Apr. 2026 When Machines Misfire While civilians have died on both sides of the conflict, Russia has shown a greater willingness to kill noncombatants. — Craig S. Smith, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2026 After an operation, reports of harm to noncombatants would prompt an assessment or investigation to figure out what went wrong and then incorporate those lessons into training. — Hannah Allam, ProPublica, 10 Mar. 2026 If a humanoid robot malfunctions and commits a war crime or kills a noncombatant, is the software programmer or commanding officer held responsible? — Charlie Campbell, Time, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for noncombatant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for noncombatant
civilian
Noun
  • The Saginaw Police Department said in its initial public report of the shooting that the condition of the civilian was unknown.
    — Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Sep. 2026
  • The firefighter and civilian were treated at the scene and released.
    — Doug Myers, CBS News, 17 Sep. 2026
Definition of civilian

Browse Nearby Words

noncollegiate
noncombatant
noncombatants
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Cite this Entry

“Noncombatant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/noncombatant. Accessed 24 Sep. 2026.

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