C1noun2K

Warrior

UK /["/ˈwɒriə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈwɔːriər/"]/

Definition

(especially in the past) a person who fights in a battle or war

In simple words: A person who fights in battles or wars.

Examples

  • a warrior nation *(= whose people are skilled in fighting)*
  • a Zulu warrior
  • He saved his fellow warrior.
  • He views himself as a holy warrior.
  • the armchair warriors at the Department of Defense
  • the graves of the fallen warriors
  • the last of the ancient warriors
  • A Viking warrior would be buried with his weapons: usually his sword, spear, shield and battleaxe.
  • These **social justice warriors** want to apply their politically correct standards and rules to others' speech.

Usage notes

Used to describe someone skilled in fighting, often in a historical or fantasy context. Not typically used for casual settings or non-combat situations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'warrior' like 'war' + 'hero', a hero in battle.

Collocations

  • fearless
  • fierce
  • formidable
  • band
  • fight

Synonyms

  • fighter
  • soldier
  • combatant
  • champion
  • gladiator

Antonyms

  • pacifist
  • peacemaker

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'warrier' which is not a word.
  • Overusing in non-war related contexts.
  • Assuming it only refers to male fighters.