combat zone

American  

noun

1. Military. an area in a theater of operations where combat forces operate, extending typically from the front line to the communications zone.

2. Slang. an area in some cities, usually in an older midtown section, where pornography stores, striptease bars, etc., flourish, or are tolerated because of being concentrated in one district.

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Etymology

Origin of combat zone

First recorded in 1935–40

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

combat zone

The Washington Post team was honoured for telling the story of a Ukrainian soldier trapped in a combat zone for 177 days.

From Barron's ● Oct. 10, 2026

It has spent more than 200 days in a combat zone and has launched more than 10,000 sorties, said acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 15, 2026

In a 6-3 decision, the court ruled that neither federal law nor the Constitution shields military contractors if their mistakes or negligence result in solders being injured in a combat zone.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 22, 2026

The Israeli Foreign Ministry said the navy had told the flotilla to change course as it was "approaching an active combat zone".

From BBC ● Oct. 1, 2025

Since I’ll be in a combat zone, Beetee helps me with armor Cinna designed.

From "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins

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