War: meaning, definitions and examples

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war

[ wɔːr ]

^{Context #1}

in history

War is a state of armed conflict between different nations or states or different groups within a nation or state. It is characterized by extreme violence, aggression, and destruction, often resulting in loss of life and property.

Synonyms

battle, combat, conflict

Examples of usage

World War II was one of the deadliest wars in history.
The country declared war on its neighboring nation.
The war lasted for several years before a peace treaty was signed.

^{Context #2}

in a figurative sense

War can also refer to a state of competition or hostility between different individuals or groups, where there is a struggle for dominance or control.

Synonyms

competition, conflict, struggle

Examples of usage

There is a price war going on between the two leading companies.
The political parties are engaged in a war of words.
The siblings are constantly at war with each other over trivial matters.

^{Context #3}

informal

War can be used informally as a verb to mean engaging in a conflict or competition with someone or something.

Synonyms

compete, fight, struggle

Examples of usage

I don't want to war with my colleagues over trivial issues.
The two companies are warring over market share.

Translations

Translations of the word "war" in other languages:

🇵🇹 guerra

🇮🇳 युद्ध

🇩🇪 Krieg

🇮🇩 perang

🇺🇦 війна

🇵🇱 wojna

🇯🇵 戦争 (せんそう)

🇫🇷 guerre

🇪🇸 guerra

🇹🇷 savaş

🇰🇷 전쟁 (jeonjaeng)

🇸🇦 حرب (harb)

🇨🇿 válka

🇸🇰 vojna

🇨🇳 战争 (zhànzhēng)

🇸🇮 vojna

🇮🇸 stríð

🇰🇿 соғыс

🇬🇪 ომი (omi)

🇦🇿 müharibə

🇲🇽 guerra

Word origin

The word 'war' originated from the Old English word 'wyrre' which meant 'fight, conflict'. The concept of war has been a part of human history since ancient times, with conflicts arising over various reasons such as territorial disputes, resources, power, and ideologies. Wars have had profound effects on societies, shaping political landscapes, economies, and cultures. Throughout history, wars have been both destructive and transformative, leading to significant changes in the course of human civilization.