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Civilian Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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civilian

[sɪˈvɪljən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

person

A person not in the armed services or the police force.

Synonyms

civilian population, noncombatant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
civilian

General situations referring to people who are not in the military or police forces.

  • The humanitarian aid is meant for civilian communities affected by the conflict.
  • She decided to pursue a civilian career after leaving the army.
noncombatant

Used in formal or legal discussions, particularly in relation to laws of war or military operations, to describe individuals who are not engaged in combat.

  • According to the Geneva Convention, noncombatants should be protected during armed conflicts.
  • The soldiers were instructed to ensure the safety of all noncombatants in the area.
civilian population

Refers to the collective group of people in a particular area or region who are not military personnel, often used in discussions about conflict zones or humanitarian efforts.

  • The war had devastating effects on the civilian population.
  • Efforts are being made to evacuate the civilian population from the danger zones.

Examples of usage

  • The civilians were evacuated from the war zone.
  • The attacker targeted civilians in the crowded market.
Context #2 | Adjective

laws

Relating to ordinary citizens and their concerns, as distinct from military or ecclesiastical matters.

Synonyms

noncombatant, nonmilitary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
civilian

Use in contrast to occupations or entities within the military.

  • After retiring from the army, he found it difficult to adjust to civilian life
nonmilitary

Use to refer to activities, roles, or objects that do not have a military function or association.

  • The government allocated funds to both military and nonmilitary projects
  • This equipment is designed for nonmilitary use
noncombatant

Use specifically to emphasize the non-involvement in combat during a conflict or war.

  • During the battle, the hospital staff were considered noncombatants
  • Noncombatants are granted certain protections under international law

Examples of usage

  • Civilian courts handle most legal matters.
  • Civilian casualties were a major concern during the conflict.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Historically, during conflicts, civilians often suffered the most, leading to the development of laws aimed at protecting them in wartime.
  • World War II highlighted the importance of defining civilians, as air raids targeted cities, prompting international legal protections like the Geneva Conventions.
  • Civilians have played crucial roles in peacekeeping efforts, often called upon to bridge gaps between military and local communities.

Psychology

  • Civilians can experience trauma during conflicts, as studies show that survival instincts can alter behavior and mental health.
  • The role of civilians in wartime poses ethical questions about their involvement and protection, leading psychologists to research coping mechanisms.
  • Civilians who participate in activism often exhibit strong community ties, indicating social behaviors that differ from military norms.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and literature, civilians are often portrayed as the unsung heroes – they create emotional bonds that drive the narrative forward.
  • Video games frequently include civilian scenarios, allowing players to engage with communities rather than just combat, showcasing complex relationships.
  • Popular media often highlights the bravery of civilians during conflicts, emphasizing their resilience and ability to thrive amid adversity.

Sociology

  • Sociologists study the interactions between civilians and military, observing how societal norms affect perceptions of each group.
  • The class and economic status of civilians can affect their experiences during conflicts, leading to diverse narratives across different communities.
  • Civilian involvement in governance and policy can shape government decisions, demonstrating their essential role in societal development.

Origin of 'civilian'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'civilian' comes from the Latin term 'civilis', which means 'pertaining to citizens', highlighting their role in society.
  • In the 1800s, the term started being used to distinguish between those in military service and those who weren't.
  • The suffix '-ian' denotes belonging to, so a 'civilian' literally means someone who belongs to 'civility' or society.

The word 'civilian' originated from the Latin word 'civilis', meaning 'relating to a citizen'. It first appeared in English in the 15th century, referring to someone who is not a member of the clergy or the military. Over time, its usage expanded to include anyone not in the armed forces or the police.

See also: civil, civilianization, civilianizing, civilisation, civility, civilization, civilly, incivility, uncivil, uncivilized.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,197, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.