noun
DEFCON
DEHF-kon
DEFCON (noun) means a numbered scale used by the US military to indicate its level of alert readiness, from DEFCON 5 (normal) to DEFCON 1 (maximum readiness). Example: “The base was placed on DEFCON 3 during the standoff.”
noun
1
A numbered scale used by the US military to indicate its level of alert readiness, from DEFCON 5 (normal) to DEFCON 1 (maximum readiness).
"The base was placed on DEFCON 3 during the standoff."
2
Informally, one's own state of alarm or urgency, often used humorously.
"She hit DEFCON 1 the moment she saw the exam schedule."
How to use DEFCON
Learner’s notes
Common mistake
Lower numbers mean higher alert — DEFCON 1 is the most severe, DEFCON 5 the calmest, which trips people up.
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The base was placed on _____ 3 during the standoff.
Etymology
A blend of "defense" and "condition."
Frequently asked questions
What does “DEFCON” mean?
The word “DEFCON” means a numbered scale used by the US military to indicate its level of alert readiness, from DEFCON 5 (normal) to DEFCON 1 (maximum readiness).
How do you pronounce “DEFCON”?
“DEFCON” is pronounced DEHF-kon (/ˈdɛfkɑn/ in IPA).
How do you use “DEFCON” in a sentence?
Here is “DEFCON” used in a sentence: “The base was placed on DEFCON 3 during the standoff.”
What part of speech is “DEFCON”?
“DEFCON” is a noun.
How many meanings does “DEFCON” have?
“DEFCON” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a numbered scale used by the US military to indicate its level of alert readiness, from DEFCON 5 (normal) to DEFCON 1 (maximum readiness).
