truculence

American  

[truhk-yuh-luhns, troo-kyuh-] / ˈtrʌk yə ləns, ˈtru kyə- /

Sometimes truculency

noun

1. the quality or attitude of being aggressively hostile; belligerence.

   The clash has ominously deepened truculence on both sides over ongoing territorial disputes.

   The new recruits both appear to have the requisite size, speed, and truculence which their coach demands from his forwards.

2. the quality or condition of being barbarous, cruel, or brutally harsh.

   Not only did the dictator manage to stay in power, but his truculence and brutality remained intact.

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Etymology

Origin of truculence

First recorded in 1720–30; from Latin truculentia “savageness”; truculent ( def. ), -ence ( def. )

Example Sentences

Its approach to union organizing activity may not be entirely welcoming, but seems to lack the truculence and hostility shown by retailers such as Starbucks and Amazon.

From Los Angeles Times

Musk reacted to McCormick’s ruling with characteristic truculence.

From Los Angeles Times

Perhaps what the Panthers need is a few more bounces and a little less truculence.

From Washington Times

One can consider DeSantis’s dislikes admirable but still wonder: Do most Republicans, does the nation, want another president defined by truculence?

From Washington Post

While Bobby knew of Jackie’s reputation for truculence and tolerated him nevertheless, he was careful not to include him in all areas of his life, knowing instinctively when Beers wouldn’t be welcomed by others.

From Literature