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
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Last year, the state issued 158 nonlethal and 62 lethal permits, with 19 lions actually killed. May 30, Sacbee.com, 30 May 2026 Those nonlethal management methods reduced the risk of depredation but were not 100% successful, said Ethan Kohn, a wildlife damage specialist. Elise Schmelzer, Denver Post, 7 May 2026 Thankfully, there are nonlethal ways to stop mice from chewing wires. Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 30 Apr. 2026 The Marsies who resist arrest are doing so without batons, skull-protecting helmets, and guns containing, technically, nonlethal rounds. Sophie Brookover, Vulture, 24 Apr. 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 16 Jun. 2026.

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