# pacifist

/ˈpæsɪfɪst/ (US) · /pˈæsɪfˌɪst/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pacifist
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

someone who believes that war and violence are always wrong. A person like this refuses to fight or use force to solve problems.

For teachers: a person who holds the belief that war and violence are unjustifiable and that all disputes should be settled by peaceful means.

## Examples

- He is a lifelong pacifist who refuses to join the army.
- During the conflict, many pacifists were imprisoned for refusing to participate in the mandatory military draft.
- The philosopher's transition from a soldier to a committed pacifist was driven by his firsthand experience of the devastation wrought by modern industrial warfare.

## Usage notes

- Can also be used as an adjective to describe beliefs or actions that support peace.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.