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Definition of combat

combat

/ˈkɑːmbæt/
com · bat

Adverb:combatively
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Plural:combats
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Adjective:combative
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Past Simple:combated
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Past Participle:combated
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Present Participle:combating
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combat Lexical Profile

combat Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Fighting or armed conflict between two or more forces, groups, or individuals.

Example

"The historical museum features an exhibit on medieval armor used in close-quarters combat."


2

A non-violent struggle, contest, or opposition between rival ideas, wills, or forces.

Example

"The public debate quickly turned into a fierce intellectual combat between the two economists."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To take action to reduce, counteract, or eliminate something undesirable or harmful.

Example

"The city council introduced new green initiatives to combat air pollution and urban heat."


2

To engage in a fight or struggle against an opponent.

Example

"The knights were prepared to combat any rival who challenged the kingdom's borders."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for combat

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-16th century from Middle French 'combattre', from Late Latin 'combattere', formed from 'com-' (with, together) and 'battuere' (to beat or fight).

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Combat. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/combat
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