Civilian

Definition

Civilian refers to a person who is not a member of the military, police, or any armed forces. It is used to distinguish ordinary people from those involved in combat or law enforcement.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɪˈvɪljən/
• Respelling: si-VIL-yuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɪˈvɪljən/
• Respelling: si-VIL-yuhn

Etymology

The word "civilian" comes from the Old French word "civilien," which was used to describe a civil law judge. It derives from the Latin "civilis," meaning "relating to a citizen." The term later evolved to mean non-military persons and entered English usage in the early 19th century.

Derivatives

• Civility (noun)
• Civil (adjective)
• Civilianize (verb)
• Civilianization (noun)
• Civilianly (adverb)

Synonyms

• Citizen
• Noncombatant
• Layperson

Antonyms

• Soldier
• Combatant
• Militant

Usage

The term "civilian" is commonly used to describe people who are not part of military or law enforcement organizations. It is often employed in discussions about warfare or public safety. For example, "The military was careful to avoid civilian casualties," or "After years in the army, he transitioned to civilian life." As an adjective, it can be used to describe non-military activities, such as "civilian jobs" or "civilian clothing."

Related Terms

• Demilitarized: An area or zone in which military forces are not permitted.
• Noncombatant: A person not engaged in fighting during a war, especially a civilian.
• Citizenship: The status of being a legally recognized member of a state or nation.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person not in the military or law enforcement: Refers to individuals who are not involved in armed forces or police activities.
  • Example: "The refugees consisted mostly of civilians fleeing the conflict."

Adjective

• Relating to non-military life: Used to describe things associated with non-military life or people.
  • Example: "He returned to civilian life after serving in the navy for several years."