wartime

noun

war·​time ˈwȯr-ˌtīm How to pronounce wartime (audio)
often attributive
: a period during which a war is in progress
rationing during wartime

Examples of wartime in a Sentence

Many goods were rationed during wartime.
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.
But in wartime, the government may need more manufacturers to mass produce the equipment. Ross Rosenfeld, Newsweek, 25 Feb. 2025 In wartime, elections are suspended during martial law. Nick Paton Walsh, CNN, 19 Feb. 2025 Even so, the existing baseline for how the dead should be treated during wartime, set out in international humanitarian law, is essential. Tyler McBrien, The Dial, 28 Jan. 2025 The energy secretary can invoke the act during wartime or when a sudden increase in demand or a shortage of electricity creates an emergency situation. Spencer Kimball, CNBC, 19 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for wartime

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wartime was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Wartime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wartime. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

wartime

noun
war·​time ˈwȯ(ə)r-ˌtīm How to pronounce wartime (audio)
: a period when a war is going on

More from Merriam-Webster on wartime

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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