noun
combatant
KOM-buh-tuhnt
noun
1
A person who takes part in fighting, especially as an armed member of a military force.
"International law sets out protections for captured combatants."
How to Use Combatant
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone actively fighting, typically in a war or armed conflict — as opposed to a civilian or non-combatant.
Common pairings
enemy combatant
unlawful combatant
former combatants
Word Forms
combatants plural
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International law sets out protections for captured _____.
Etymology
From late Middle English combataunt, via Middle French combatant, ultimately from combat.