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

In this worldview, there is no climate change, Trump will make everyone rich, and there is no problem that cannot be solved by belligerence and vengeance.

From Slate

Given the belligerence of this court, it seems safe to say that there will be no “switch in time” of self-moderation.

From Slate

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

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aggressiveness
• antagonism