nonlethal

adjective

non·​le·​thal ˌnän-ˈlē-thəl How to pronounce nonlethal (audio)
Synonyms of nonlethalnext
: not lethal : not capable of causing death
a nonlethal gas
nonlethal weapons
a nonlethal dose of venom

Examples of nonlethal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
State programs aimed at helping communities pay for protections against predators such as installing improved fencing or training in nonlethal methods of controlling them have only been funded sporadically. Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 28 Jan. 2026 The initial ruling blocked federal agents in Minnesota from arresting peaceful protesters or using pepper spray and other nonlethal munitions against them. Alexx Altman-Devilbiss, Baltimore Sun, 22 Jan. 2026 Days earlier, the same judge blocked federal agents in the state from using pepper spray or nonlethal munitions on, or arresting, peaceful protesters. Wcco Staff, CBS News, 20 Jan. 2026 On Friday in Southern California, a 21-year-old protester underwent six hours of surgery after a Department of Homeland Security agent fired a nonlethal round at close range at him during a protest. Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 14 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for nonlethal

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nonlethal was in 1625

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Cite this Entry

“Nonlethal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonlethal. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.

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