Search Dictionary
Definition of combative

combative

/kəmˈbæt.ɪv/
com · bat · ive
Adverb:combatively
JUMP TO:

combative Lexical Profile

combative Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Ready or eager to fight, argue, or engage in conflict; pugnacious or confrontational.

Example

"The candidate adopted a combative tone during the televised debate, challenging every point made by the moderator."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for combative
Antonyms
View all antonyms for combative

• Rhymes for combative

• Nearby Words

comb
combat
combatant
combative
combatively
combativeness
combinable

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 16th century from the verb 'combat' and the suffix '-ive', ultimately tracing back via Middle French to the Late Latin 'combattere', meaning 'to fight with'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Combative. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/combative
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.