aggressor

noun

ag·​gres·​sor ə-ˈgre-sər How to pronounce aggressor (audio)
: one that commits or practices aggression

Examples of aggressor in a Sentence

Each country accused the other of being the aggressor. a group of smaller states had formed an alliance to deter potential aggressors
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
More protections are needed to thwart more salvos from more aggressors. Colin Demarest, Axios, 30 Oct. 2024 And both the authoritarian aggressor and the democratic defender have proved willing to absorb grievous casualties in a war now grinding through its third year. Nicholas Eberstadt, Foreign Affairs, 10 Oct. 2024 Billy did just that, but fighting back unlocked the teen's immense magical powers and nearly killed his aggressor. Nick Romano, EW.com, 10 Oct. 2024 The model uses the Clarins Double Serum, a powerful 2-in-1 formula with turmeric that enhances the skin’s texture and reduces signs of aging, such as wrinkles, caused by environmental and lifestyle aggressors. Michelle Lee, People.com, 21 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for aggressor 

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin, "attacker, assailant," from aggredī, adgredī "to approach, attack" + -tor, agent suffix — more at aggress

First Known Use

1585, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of aggressor was in 1585

Dictionary Entries Near aggressor

Cite this Entry

“Aggressor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aggressor. Accessed 19 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

aggressor

noun
ag·​gres·​sor ə-ˈgres-ər How to pronounce aggressor (audio)
: a person or country that attacks without reasonable cause

Medical Definition

aggressor

noun
ag·​gres·​sor ə-ˈgres-ər How to pronounce aggressor (audio)
: one who exhibits aggression

More from Merriam-Webster on aggressor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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