What does bellicose mean?
Bellicose refers to a person, nation, or attitude characterized by a strong desire to fight or go to war. This term is often used to describe aggressive or warlike behavior, rhetoric, or posturing, and it typically carries a negative connotation, implying that such behavior is unjustified or unnecessarily confrontational. In modern usage, bellicose is commonly applied to politicians, governments, or nations that engage in aggressive or threatening behavior, as well as to individuals with a confrontational or pugnacious personality. The term is useful for describing a range of behaviors, from verbal posturing to military mobilization, and it is often used in discussions of international relations, politics, and history.
adjectiveHaving or showing a strong desire to fight or go to war. A bellicose person or nation is aggressive and warlike.
- Having or showing a strong desire to fight or go to war
- Aggressive or confrontational in manner or speech
"The bellicose rhetoric from the politician sparked fears of an impending conflict."
"The bellicose rhetoric from the politician sparked fears of an impending conflict."
"His bellicose attitude made him unpopular among his colleagues."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of bellicose
The word bellicose originates from the Latin term 'belligerosus', which means 'warlike' or 'fond of war'. This Latin term is derived from 'bellum', meaning 'war', and the suffix '-osus', which forms an adjective indicating a quality or tendency. The word bellicose has been used in English since the 15th century to describe people or nations with a strong inclination towards war or conflict.
Usage notes
Bellicose typically carries a negative connotation, implying an unjustified or unnecessarily aggressive attitude. It is often used in formal or written contexts, particularly in discussions of politics, international relations, or history.