aggressor

[ uh-gres-er ]

noun

1. a person, group, or nation that attacks first or initiates hostilities; an assailant or invader.

Word History and Origins

Origin of aggressor¹

1670–80; < Late Latin, Latin aggred- (stem of aggredī to attack; aggress ) + -tor -tor

Example Sentences

At the time, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department told The Times that an initial investigation determined the actor was the primary aggressor.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump has previously told Nato members to increase defence spending, saying he would let aggressors such as Russia do "whatever the hell it wants" to those that do not.

From BBC

"After Kazan and after he shook hands with the war’s instigator and spent UN Day on the territory of the aggressor country, it would be somehow strange to host him here."

From BBC

She observed the two reptiles struggling, uncertain which was the aggressor, while horseflies clung to the snake’s back.

From BBC

For survivors of all kinds, there can be something powerful about biting critiques wrapped in laughter that attack — but never directly addresses — the aggressor, whether it be a man or a monster.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• assailant
• intruder
• invader
• trespasser