civilian

[ si-vil-yuhn ]

noun

1. a person who is not on active duty with a military, naval, police, or fire fighting organization.
2. Informal. anyone regarded by members of a profession, interest group, society, etc., as not belonging; nonprofessional; outsider:

   We need a producer to run the movie studio, not some civilian from the business world.

3. a person versed in or studying Roman or civil law.

adjective

1. of, pertaining to, formed by, or administered by civilians.

civilian

/ sɪˈvɪljən /

noun

1. 1. a person whose primary occupation is civil or nonmilitary
   2. ( as modifier )

      civilian life

Other Words From

• anti·ci·vilian adjective
• nonci·vilian noun
• proci·vilian adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of civilian¹

1350–1400; Middle English: student of civil law < Old French civilien (adj.); civil, -ian

Word History and Origins

Origin of civilian¹

C14 (originally: a practitioner of civil law): from civile (from the Latin phrase jūs cīvīle civil law) + -ian

Example Sentences

He also called on "all sides" to protect civilians and minorities, and "ensure essential aid can reach the most vulnerable" in the coming hours and days.

From BBC

Deputy US Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East Daniel Shapiro has called on all parties to protect civilians, particularly minorities, and to respect international norms.

From BBC

Despite widespread reports that Russian airstrikes were causing civilian casualties, the Russian defence ministry felt confident enough to fly international media out to Syria to witness the Russian military operation.

From BBC

Unconfirmed reports emerged of soldiers casting away their uniforms and running off in civilian clothing.

From Los Angeles Times

The UN said the fighting was also "worsening an already horrific situation for civilians in the north of the country".

From BBC

Related Words

• private