belligerence

[ buh-lij-er-uhns ]

noun

1. a warlike or aggressively hostile nature, condition, or attitude.
2. an act of carrying on war; warfare.

belligerence

/ bɪˈlɪdʒərəns /

noun

1. the act or quality of being belligerent or warlike; aggressiveness

Word History and Origins

Origin of belligerence¹

First recorded in 1805–15; belliger(ent) + -ence

Example Sentences

With Iran’s belligerence in overdrive, the United States and its allies should seriously consider a military option to take out Iran’s nuclear sites.

From Los Angeles Times

He finally regressed to his usual juvenile belligerence and insulted Micklethwait and the friendly Wall St. Journal, saying they don't know what they're talking about.

From Salon

But Morrow’s quiet intensity, which doesn’t soft-pedal Isaac’s arrogance and belligerence, has a haunting quality.

From Los Angeles Times

Kennedy suggested that U.S. belligerence had triggered massive instability following wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

From Los Angeles Times

To keep the donations flowing, so Trump's fancy lawyers can get paid, it's crucial for him to pantomine belligerence, even if what is actually on display in court is a weary old man.

From Salon

Related Words

• aggressiveness
• antagonism