combat zone

noun

1. Military. an area in a theater of operations where combat forces operate, extending typically from the front line to the communications zone.
2. Slang. an area in some cities, usually in an older midtown section, where pornography stores, striptease bars, etc., flourish, or are tolerated because of being concentrated in one district.

Word History and Origins

Origin of combat zone¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

The Israeli military announced on Tuesday that it troops were “continuing combat in the Jabalia area, while enabling the secure evacuation of civilians from the combat zone”.

From BBC

The IDF warned the public that north Gaza is "still considered a dangerous combat zone" and published a new map on Sunday showing zones for potential evacuation in the north.

From BBC

The staging by Cofield, associate artistic director of the Classical Theatre of Harlem, turns Troy into a modern urban combat zone.

From Los Angeles Times

“Given the ongoing exchanges of fire, remaining in an active combat zone has inherent risks. The IDF will continue to counter threats while persisting to mitigate harm to civilians.”

From BBC

“You cannot lead and implement a polio vaccination campaign in an active combat zone. It’s simply impossible,” he says.

From BBC