Pacifist
/ˈpæsɪfɪst/
Definitions
2 meaningsA person who opposes war or violence of any kind.
/ˈpæsɪfɪst/
A person who believes that war and violence are unjustifiable.
The pacifist organization advocated for peaceful resolutions to international conflicts.
💡 Simply: A pacifist is someone who really, really doesn't like fighting or war. They believe problems should be solved without violence, like talking things out or finding another solution. Imagine someone who always suggests playing a board game instead of having a disagreement!
👶 For kids: A pacifist is someone who doesn't like to fight. They believe that it's better to be peaceful and solve problems by talking.
More Examples
During the war, many pacifists refused to serve in the military.
Her pacifist beliefs led her to participate in numerous peace rallies.
How It's Used
"The pacifists organized a protest against the war."
"Many pacifists were involved in the civil rights movement."
Adhering to the principles of pacifism; opposed to war or violence.
/ˈpæsɪfɪst/
Relating to or advocating pacifism.
His pacifist views made him hesitant to support military action.
💡 Simply: When something is pacifist, it means it's all about peace! Think of a pacifist policy – it would be one that's against any kind of fighting or war, always looking for peaceful solutions. Like choosing to share your toys instead of arguing.
👶 For kids: If something is pacifist, it means it's peaceful and doesn't like fighting or war.
More Examples
The organization promoted a pacifist approach to conflict resolution.
The pacifist movement gained momentum during times of war.
How It's Used
"The pacifist philosophy emphasizes non-violence."
"They organized a pacifist demonstration to protest the arms race."
Idioms & expressions
Make love, not war
An expression of anti-war sentiment, advocating for peace and love rather than violence and conflict.
"The protesters carried signs that said 'Make love, not war' during the demonstration."
From French pacifiste, from Latin pacificus 'peace-making', from pax, pac- 'peace' + -ficus '-making'.
The term 'pacifist' gained prominence in the early 20th century, particularly during the World Wars, as a label for those opposing war and conscription.
Memory tip
Think 'peace-ifist'. If you believe in peace, you're a pacifist.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: pax (peace)