Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈbɛlɪˌkoʊs/

Definitions

1. Inclined or eager to fight; aggressively hostile; belligerent; pugnacious.
2. Demonstrating a readiness to engage in conflict or war.

Usage Examples

• "The general's bellicose rhetoric escalated tensions between the two nations." :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
• "Her bellicose attitude made negotiations difficult." :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Etymology

The term "bellicose" originates from the Latin word "bellicōsus," which is derived from "bellum," meaning "war," combined with the suffix "-ōsus," indicating "full of." :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Synonyms

• Belligerent
• Hostile
• Combative
• Warlike
• Pugnacious
• Quarrelsome
• Contentious
• Militant
• Antagonistic
• Truculent

Antonyms

• Peaceful
• Pacifist
• Nonaggressive
• Friendly
• Amiable
• Affable
• Gentle
• Calm
• Serene
• Tranquil

Translations