Definition

Referring to something that is not capable of causing death or serious injury.

Example

The police used nonlethal methods to control the crowd during the protest.

Conversation

Have you heard about those nonlethal self-defense tools?

Yeah, I think they're a great option for safety without causing harm.

Exactly! It's nice to have alternatives that are nonlethal and effective.

For sure! I’d feel more comfortable using something like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonlethal → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "lethal" (from Latin "letalis", meaning deadly). The word "nonlethal" means not deadly or not causing death.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') and 'deadly' ('lethal') to remember that 'nonlethal' refers to something that does not cause death.

Visually Confused Words