BELLIGERENCE Synonyms: 72 Similar and Opposite Words

belligerence

noun

bə-ˈlij-rən(t)s

Definition of belligerence

as in aggression

an inclination to fight or quarrel the dominant male wolf was able to withstand the belligerence of younger challengers

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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 belligerence Install one specific buffer this week that protects the behavior from being extinguished or twisted into belligerence. — Mary Crossan, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026 Yet the franchise, for all its mayhem, didn’t run on belligerence, or at least channelled its aggression in a disarming way. — Katy Waldman, New Yorker, 13 July 2026 The previous year, troubled by the growing belligerence of the internet crowd, Atkin had enrolled in self-defense training in her neighborhood. — Literary Hub, 30 June 2026 Officers in Texas displayed startling belligerence at times, grabbing or tackling students a fraction of their size over misconduct that often appeared to be minor. — Clare Amari, New York Times, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for belligerence

Recent Examples of Synonyms for belligerence

Noun

Trump and Lee must restore deterrence, not reward Kim’s aggression, to avoid strategic and economic calamity.

— Dan Blumenthal, Washington Post, 27 Oct. 2026
The aggression paid off as Kansas converted five fourth downs while improving to 3-4 overall and 1-3 in the Big 12.

— Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of aggression

Noun

Hatred toward minorities is not new in America, but the recent surge in hostility aimed at Indian Americans is staggering.

— Raja Krishnamoorthi, Chicago Tribune, 28 Oct. 2026
Riyadh said the discussions were aimed at keeping diplomatic channels open and preventing another escalation in hostilities.

— Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of hostility

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bellies up

belligerence

belligerency

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“Belligerence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/belligerence. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of belligerence

noun

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