Militarized Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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militarized

[ˈmɪlɪtəraɪz(d) ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

politics

Equipped with military weapons and personnel; prepared for war or combat.

Synonyms

armed, military, warlike.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
militarized	Used to describe a place, group, or organization that is equipped with military-grade weapons and operates in a manner similar to a military force. The police force was criticized for being overly militarized during the protests. The border is heavily militarized to prevent illegal crossings.
armed	Refers to individuals or groups carrying weapons, usually suggesting they are prepared for defense or potential conflict. This is broad and can include anything from a single person to a group. The guards were armed with rifles. He was arrested while attempting to rob a store, fully armed with a handgun.
military	Describes anything related to the armed forces (army, navy, air force) of a country. It can refer to activities, equipment, personnel, or structure. She decided to pursue a military career right out of high school. The government increased the military budget this year.
warlike	Used to describe someone or something that has an aggressive nature and is inclined towards conflict or war. This term often carries a negative connotation. The warlike behavior of the neighboring country has raised concerns among international observers. Their leader is known for his warlike rhetoric and actions.

Examples of usage

The militarized border was heavily guarded to prevent any unauthorized crossings.
The militarized zone was off-limits to civilians due to safety concerns.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

society

Characterized by a heavy presence of military influence or control.

Synonyms

aggressive, militant, paramilitary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
militarized	When describing something that has been equipped with military resources or capabilities, often in a neutral or descriptive sense. The border has become heavily militarized in recent years The police force has been militarized with surplus military equipment
militant	When referring to people or groups ready to go into combat or use strong, violent methods for a cause, often with a negative connotation. The militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack She is a militant activist for animal rights, often partaking in radical protests
paramilitary	Describes unofficial, non-governmental groups organized similarly to military forces, often in the context of political or civil conflicts. The paramilitary group has gained significant power in the region Government forces clashed with paramilitary units in the remote village
aggressive	Used to describe behavior or actions that are forceful, hostile, or intending to dominate, often with a negative connotation. His aggressive stance towards negotiations made the other party uneasy The company's aggressive expansion strategy has raised some ethical concerns

Examples of usage

The militarized police force was criticized for its aggressive tactics.
The militarized society prioritized defense spending over social programs.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'militarized' dates back to the late 19th century, aligning with increased military influence in public life.
In the 20th century, many nations began to adjust their policies, leading to a more militarized society during the World Wars.
The Cold War saw a global rise in militarization as countries focused on defense strategies against potential threats.

Cultural Impact

Movies and games often depict militarized settings which reflect social anxieties about security and conflict.
Protests against militarization have become a theme in music and art, particularly in response to military actions in civilian settings.

Political Context

Militarization can be observed in police forces of many cities, especially post-9/11, where military gear became common for law enforcement.
Countries facing internal conflicts often resort to militarization as a means of control, influencing civil liberties.

Psychological Effects

Inhabitants of militarized areas may experience heightened stress and anxiety due to the presence of armed forces.
Studies suggest that constant exposure to militarization can lead to normalization of violence in communities.

Global Perspectives

Countries like the United States and Russia have been involved in debates about militarization of their society, especially concerning public safety.
International organizations often assess the effects of militarization in conflict zones, aiming to understand its impact on peace and rebuilding efforts.

Origin of 'militarized'

The term 'militarized' originated from the word 'militarize', which first appeared in the early 19th century. It stems from the Latin word 'militaris', meaning 'of soldiers or war', combined with the suffix '-ize', indicating the process of making something military-oriented. The concept of militarization has been prevalent throughout history, often in response to threats of conflict or to establish dominance in certain regions.

See also: militarism, nonmilitary, paramilitary.