Definition

In a way that shows aggression or a willingness to fight.

Example

He spoke belligerently during the argument, making the situation more tense.

Conversation

Did you see how he argued belligerently with the teacher yesterday?

Yeah, I couldn't believe how rude he was!

I mean, why be so belligerently confrontational over a simple question?

Exactly, it just makes everything more complicated.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Belligerently → It is formed from "bellum" (meaning war) and "-gerent" (from the Latin "gerere", meaning to carry or to wage). The word describes a manner of behaving that is aggressive or warlike, as if one is waging war.

Memory Tip

Think of 'war' ('bellum') and 'waging' or 'carrying' it ('gerere') to remember that 'belligerently' means behaving in a warlike or aggressive manner.

Visually Confused Words