conscientious objector

[kon-shee-en-shuhs uhb-jek-ter, kon-see‐]

noun

1. a person who refuses on moral or religious grounds to serve in the armed forces or to bear arms in a military conflict.

conscientious objector

noun

1. a person who refuses to serve in the armed forces on the grounds of conscience

conscientious objector

1. A person who refuses to render military service on the grounds of moral principle or religious belief. A CO must demonstrate a sincere, active, and long-standing objection in order to receive an exemption from armed service. The United States and some European governments officially recognize CO status; approved COs are usually required to perform social service or noncombat military service in place of armed duty. (See also draft, draft dodger, and Selective Service System.)

Word History and Origins

Origin of conscientious objector¹

First recorded in 1820–30