pacificism

noun

Definition of pacificismnext
as in nonviolence

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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 pacificism Holding fast to pacificism could contribute to a massacre. — Carol Quillen, Time, 21 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pacificism
  1. nonviolence
  2. pacifism
Noun
  • Since the inception of the Archdiocese's buyback events in 2023, nearly 1,500 firearms have been collected by the Baltimore Police Department, in an effort to create a culture of peace and nonviolence.
    — Andrew Adeolu, CBS News, 9 Aug. 2026
  • There, Williams published a newsletter, The Crusader, to encourage Black people to engage in self-defense rather than nonviolence, whether during civil rights protests or confronting racist aggressors.
    — Aaron Coy Moulton, The Conversation, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of nonviolence
Noun
  • With pacifism enshrined in its post-war constitution and culture, Japan has for decades had to rely on co-operation with US military intelligence support.
    — The Week UK, TheWeek, 16 July 2026
  • The postwar disarmament of Germany, the manifesto argues, was an overcorrection that contributed to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, similarly Japan’s commitment to pacifism has outlived its purpose.
    — Marco Quiroz-Gutierrez, Fortune, 22 Apr. 2026
Definition of pacifism

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pacificators
pacificism
pacified
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Cite this Entry

“Pacificism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pacificism. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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