conscientious objector

[ kon-shee-en-shuhs uhb-jek-ter, kon-see‐ ]

noun

1. a person who refuses on moral or religious grounds to serve in the armed forces or to bear arms in a military conflict.

conscientious objector

noun

1. a person who refuses to serve in the armed forces on the grounds of conscience

conscientious objector

1. A person who refuses to render military service on the grounds of moral principle or religious belief. A CO must demonstrate a sincere, active, and long-standing objection in order to receive an exemption from armed service. The United States and some European governments officially recognize CO status; approved COs are usually required to perform social service or noncombat military service in place of armed duty. ( See also draft , draft dodger , and Selective Service System .)

Word History and Origins

Origin of conscientious objector¹

First recorded in 1820–30