WordGarden.iowartime
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /wˈɔːtaɪm/
US
- /ˈwɔrˌtaɪm/
Meanings
Noun
a period when a country or society is at war
Adjective
happening during or relating to a time of war
Beyond the definition
"Wartime" is not just the time when a war is happening; it is the whole way life changes because of the conflict. Think about rationing during World War II. That was not just a practical problem; for many families, it was part of daily life in wartime. The word includes not only battles and soldiers, but also changes in society, the economy, and the feelings of ordinary people. A "wartime footing" means a country is fully organized for war and is using its resources for that purpose. You might also read about "wartime romances" growing during hard times or see films that show the harsh reality of wartime life.
"Wartime" refers to the period when a war is actively taking place, but it is much more than a set of dates on a timeline. It describes the social, economic, political, and emotional conditions created by armed conflict. It is not only about the fighting itself; it is about how that fighting reaches into every part of life for the people involved, including soldiers on the front lines and civilians at home.
Wartime often brings major changes to daily routines. Governments may introduce rationing, take control of industries, limit information, and call people into military service or war production. You may hear phrases like "wartime economy," which focuses on producing weapons and supplies, or "wartime measures," which are emergency rules used during conflict.
The term can also be used in a figurative way to describe a period of intense competition or struggle. For example, a company might talk about being in "wartime mode" when it is fighting hard for market share and giving the effort its full attention. Even so, the word is mainly connected with real armed conflict and the deep effect it has on individuals and societies. Reading wartime diaries shows not only the battles that were fought, but also the resilience, sacrifice, and strength of people living through extraordinary times.
Examples
- 1
Family history
My grandfather rarely spoke about his wartime experiences.
- 2
Shortages
Wartime shortages changed what people ate and wore.
- 3
Historical fiction
She is writing a novel set in wartime London.
- 4
Peacetime contrast
Some rules that seem unnecessary in peacetime are accepted in wartime.
- Phrasein peacetime / in wartime
during peace / during war
See also
Similar
- war-era
- during-the-war
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- wartime economy
- wartime conditions
- wartime leader
- wartime rationing
Word family
Explore
- home front
- mobilization
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- wartimenoun