Synonyms for

Combatants

Verb / kʌˈmbætʌnts / Another word for combatants — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Combatants are people or groups who are fighting in a war or battle.

Synonyms & similar words

battler fighter combatant belligerent scrapper fighters warriors soldiers militants belligerents opponents adversaries enemies foes opposers challengers competitors contenders opposition rivals antagonists

Synonyms by register

Formal

belligerents opponents adversaries protagonists

Informal

fighters warriors soldiers troops

Literary

champions stalwarts braves

Antonyms

peacemakers neutrals noncombatants civilians pacifists diplomats

Common collocations

  • enemy combatants
  • armed combatants
  • civilian combatants
  • surrendering combatants
  • wounded combatants
  • enemy combatants captured
  • combatants in conflict

Word family

noun combatant
verb combat
adjective combative

Usage note

Refers specifically to individuals engaged in combat, often in a military context. It is important to distinguish between 'combatants' and 'non-combatants' or 'civilians' under international law.

Example sentences

  1. The two combatants were engaged in a fierce battle.
  2. The combatants were armed with guns and knives.
  3. The combatants fought for hours without a break.
  4. The two combatants were equally matched in strength and skill.
  5. The wounded combatants were taken to the hospital.

Quotes

  • I do not believe that the men who served in uniform in Vietnam have been given the credit they deserve. It was a difficult war against an unorthodox enemy.
  • In war, the human factor cannot be disregarded.
  • All warfare is based on deception.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words