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Definition of pugnacious

pugnacious

/pʌɡˈneɪ.ʃəs/
pug · na · cious
Adverb:pugnaciously
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pugnacious Lexical Profile

pugnacious Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Eager or quick to argue, quarrel, or fight; having a combative or aggressive nature.

Example

"The debater was known for his pugnacious style, challenging every minor point his opponent raised."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for pugnacious

• Nearby Words

puffy
pug
pug-headed snake
pugnacious
puh
puke
puker

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-17th century from the Latin adjective 'pugnax' (meaning 'fond of fighting' or 'combative'), derived from the verb 'pugnare' ('to fight'), which is ultimately rooted in 'pugnus' ('fist').

Cite this Entry

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