nonviolence

noun

non·​vi·​o·​lence ˌnän-ˈvī-ə-lən(t)s 

1

: abstention from violence as a matter of principle

also : the principle of such abstention

2

a

: the quality or state of being nonviolent : avoidance of violence

b

: nonviolent demonstrations for the purpose of securing political ends

Examples of nonviolence in a Sentence

Demonstration organizers are urging nonviolence.

Recent Examples on the Web

Baylor chose nonviolence for years before fighting back against Sterling in the courts, albeit fruitlessly. —Scott Tobias, Vulture, 2 July 2024

He is regarded as America’s preeminent advocate of nonviolence and one of the greatest nonviolent leaders in world history, said the center. —Diana Leyva, The Tennessean, 9 Jan. 2024

Task Force, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting social justice, nonviolence and equality, 40 years ago. —Adrienne Roberts, Detroit Free Press, 5 Dec. 2024

Her refusal, remedy and protection transcended violence or nonviolence. —Meilan Solly, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

nonviolence

noun

non·​vi·​o·​lence (ˈ)nän-ˈvī-ə-lən(t)s 

1

: the avoidance of the use of violence as a matter of principle

also : the principle of not using violence to achieve one's goals

2

: nonviolent demonstrations for the purpose of achieving political goals