WordGarden.iomilitant
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /mˈɪlɪtənt/
US
- /ˈmɪlətənt/
Meanings
Adjective
aggressively active in support of a political or social cause
using or favoring violent or armed action for a cause
Noun
a person who uses or supports violent or armed action for a cause
Beyond the definition
The word "militant" can make you think of soldiers, but it does not always refer to someone in the armed forces. It describes a person, group, or attitude that is strongly devoted to a cause and ready to fight hard for it. Think of the suffragettes fighting for women's right to vote: some protested peacefully, while others used more forceful tactics, such as disruptive demonstrations and civil disobedience, to push for legal change.
A militant stance is not just about physical force; it is about strong commitment and a willingness to fight, figuratively or literally, for what you believe in. You might describe an environmental activist as "militant" if they are extremely vocal and determined, perhaps even using disruptive protests. Context matters: the word can suggest violence, but it often simply means intensely devoted and ready to take strong action to reach a goal.
"Militant" originally comes from the Latin word miles, meaning soldier. While it still carries connotations of military force, today it's more often used to describe someone actively engaged in a cause—political, social, or religious—with an aggressive and unwavering commitment. It suggests a willingness to fight for their beliefs, though not necessarily through physical violence.
You might hear about "militant feminists" advocating for equal rights or "militant environmentalists" protesting against pollution. The term implies a level of intensity that goes beyond simple support; it is about actively pushing for change and often challenging the status quo.
However, it is important to be mindful when using "militant," as it can carry negative connotations and may suggest extremism. While the term is not simply a synonym for "violent," it is often used in news reports to describe armed groups engaged in conflict. In that setting, "militant" usually implies an insurgent or paramilitary nature.
Historically, the term was often applied to labor movements; "militant trade unionists" were those who were not afraid to strike and demand better working conditions through direct confrontation. Today, the word is used across a wide range of contexts, usually implying strong conviction and a readiness to take action, even if that action is controversial or disruptive. It can also be used as a noun for a person in an aggressive movement or armed group. Ultimately, "militant" describes an unwavering dedication to a cause, coupled with a willingness to struggle, whether through words, protests, or direct action, for what one believes is right.
Examples
- 1
Armed conflict
The army launched an operation against a militant group in the north.
- 2
Hostage release
Two aid workers were freed after being held by militants for three days.
- 3
Union demands
The union has become more militant in its demands for better pay.
- Patternbe militant in your demands
ask very forcefully and refuse to give way easily
- 4
Privacy protection
She has always been militant about protecting her children’s privacy.
- Patternmilitant about + issue
extremely determined and aggressive in supporting it
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Campaign speeches
As the campaign went on, his speeches became more militant.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- militant group
- militant movement
- militant activist
Word family
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Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- militantnounadjective
Forms
- militantspluralnounadjective