as in aggression
an inclination to fight or quarrel
the dominant male wolf was able to withstand the belligerence of younger challengers
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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
Its outcome defines European security and Chinese belligerence over the next decade.
—
Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2025
For a certain stripe of critic, the problem with liberal internationalism isn’t its belligerence but its benevolence.
—Daniel Immerwahr, New Yorker, 16 June 2025
There’s been plenty of disturbing news lately about energy belligerence and blackouts, for instance.
—Christine Ro, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025
The continuous uncertainty, chaos and belligerence created by this man could drive one to drink — and so does the thought of being stuck with him for four whole years.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 8 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for belligerence
Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2025
For a certain stripe of critic, the problem with liberal internationalism isn’t its belligerence but its benevolence.
—Daniel Immerwahr, New Yorker, 16 June 2025
There’s been plenty of disturbing news lately about energy belligerence and blackouts, for instance.
—Christine Ro, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025
The continuous uncertainty, chaos and belligerence created by this man could drive one to drink — and so does the thought of being stuck with him for four whole years.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 8 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for belligerence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for belligerence
Noun
-
In terms of behavioral issues, aggression, social conflict, and soiling were the most common.—
Jack Beresford,
MSNBC Newsweek,
12 Sep. 2025
-
Rutte and Grynkewich described NATO’s eastern flank as the front line of defense, but dismissed arguments that the whole alliance wasn’t at risk of Russian aggression.—
Mike Brest,
The Washington Examiner,
12 Sep. 2025
Noun
-
Increase his aggressiveness at the point of attack.—
Luca Evans,
Denver Post,
12 Sep. 2025
-
The forward is known for his physicality and aggressiveness on the ice.—
Jordan McPherson,
Miami Herald,
10 Sep. 2025
Noun
-
The Islamic Republic of Iran is determined to preserve its independence at any cost, stand on its own feet, and firmly resist the excessive demands, aggression, and acts of hostility by foreign powers—including the United States and the Zionist regime.—
Amira El-Fekki,
MSNBC Newsweek,
18 Sep. 2025
-
The message refers to the conflict in Gaza and calls for an end to hostilities.—
Kathleen Walsh,
Glamour,
15 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Belligerence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/belligerence. Accessed 20 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share