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Definition of nonviolent

nonviolent

/ˌnɑːnˈvaɪələnt/
(UK: non-violent)
non · vi · o · lent
Adverb:nonviolently
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nonviolent Lexical Profile

nonviolent Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Using peaceful means rather than physical force or aggression, especially to bring about political or social change.

Example

"The civil rights leaders organized a series of nonviolent marches to demand equal voting rights."

2

Not involving or characterized by physical assault, bodily harm, or the use of weapons (especially of a crime or offender).

Example

"The judge recommended community service and rehabilitation for first-time nonviolent offenders."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for nonviolent

• Nearby Words

nonveteran
nonviable
nonviolence
nonviolent
nonviolently
nonvirgin
nonvisual

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English in the mid-19th century by combining the Latinate prefix non- ('not') with violent, gaining widespread political prominence in the 20th century as a translation of the Sanskrit term ahimsa ('non-injury'), championed by Mahatma Gandhi.

Cite this Entry

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