militant Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a militant reformer
    activist.
  2. adjective satellite disposed to warfare or hard-line policies
    hawkish; warlike.
    • militant nations
    • hawkish congressman
    • warlike policies
  3. adjective satellite showing a fighting disposition
    competitive.
    • highly competitive sales representative
    • militant in fighting for better wages for workers
    • his self-assertive and ubiquitous energy
  4. adjective satellite engaged in war
    belligerent; warring; war-ridden.
    • belligerent (or warring) nations

WordNet

Mil"i*tant adjective
Etymology
L. militans, -antis, p. pr. of militare to be soldier: cf. F. militant. See Militate.
Definitions
  1. Engaged in warfare; fighting; combating; serving as a soldier. -- Mil"i*tant*ly, adv.
    At which command the powers militant... Moved on in silence. Milton.

Webster 1913