warfare

[wawr-fair]

noun

1. the process of military struggle between two nations or groups of nations; war.

2. armed conflict between two massed enemies, armies, or the like.

3. conflict, especially when vicious and unrelenting, between competitors, political rivals, etc.

warfare

/ ˈwɔːˌfɛə /

noun

1. the act, process, or an instance of waging war

2. conflict, struggle, or strife

Other Word Forms

• semiwarfare noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of warfare¹

1425–75; late Middle English werefare, i.e., a faring forth to war; war ¹, fare

Example Sentences

“Spiritual warfare rhetoric was a big part of January 6,” he said of the deadly 2021 attack on the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

"This is not warfare – this is pure terrorism."

From BBC

In the words of the International Committee of the Red Cross, it means that "the effects of the means and methods of warfare used must not be disproportionate to the military advantage sought".

From BBC

Kirk was known for melding his conservative politics, nationalism and evangelical faith, casting the current political climate as a state of spiritual warfare between a righteous right wing and so-called godless liberals.

From Los Angeles Times

Kirk is known for melding his conservative politics, nationalism and evangelical faith, casting the current political climate as a state of spiritual warfare between a righteous right wing and “evil” liberals.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• battle 
• campaigning www.thesaurus.com
• clash 
• combat 
• competition 
• discord 
• fighting 
• rivalry 
• strife 
• struggle 
• war