noun
combatant
KOM-buh-tuhnt
Combatant (noun) means a person who takes part in fighting, especially as an armed member of a military force. Example: “International law sets out protections for captured combatants.”
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
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Word forms
- Plural
- combatants
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
International law sets out protections for captured _____.
Etymology
From late Middle English combataunt, via Middle French combatant, ultimately from combat.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for combatant
See all rhymes for combatant →Frequently asked questions
What does “combatant” mean?
The word “combatant” means a person who takes part in fighting, especially as an armed member of a military force. In plain terms, someone actively fighting, typically in a war or armed conflict — as opposed to a civilian or non-combatant.
How do you pronounce “combatant”?
“Combatant” is pronounced KOM-buh-tuhnt (/kəmˈbæ.tənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “combatant” in a sentence?
Here is “combatant” used in a sentence: “International law sets out protections for captured combatants.”
What part of speech is “combatant”?
“Combatant” is a noun.
Where does the word “combatant” come from?
The word “combatant” comes from Middle French. From late Middle English combataunt, via Middle French combatant, ultimately from combat.
