Do you often think of what exactly means when a person refers to anyone as belligerent? Even though it might be an expression for you, it comes with a lot more significance in British slang. According to the scenario, you may formally use this expression, but it can also have a serious tone. So, What does Belligerent mean in British Slang?

In social talks, it’s frequently used to describe an individual who is somewhat too aggressive or irritated. Let’s explore this term in further detail to know more about it. 

What Does Belligerent Mean In British Slang?

In British slang, when an individual is called belligerent, he is aggressive and angry. When someone is belligerent, it means feeling or having a desire to battle. 

Belligerent mainly relates to a mental state.

Definitions of Belligerent

• The person is willing to fight or argue anywhere, anytime with anyone; warlike behavior.
• The nations, divisions or organizations who are in battle with one another are known as belligerents. This is related to or regarded as a state in disagreements covered by and governed by the rules of war.

Origin History of Belligerent

Belligerent is derived from the Latin expression bellum, which translates as “war.” Belligerent might also refer to physical battles. The word belligerent first came into use in writing in the late 1500s. The first belligerent trace found in the Oxford English Dictionary dates back to 1584. 

The phrases “antebellum” (before the Civil War) and “bellicose” (hostile and eager of battle) are some more English words that are included in this term. 

Synonymous Terms 

• Militant
• Agonistic
• Assaultive
• Bellicose
• Brawly
• Chippy
• Combative
• Confrontational
• Contentious
• Discordant
• Disputatious
• Feisty
• Gladiatorial
• Pugnacious
• Quarrelsome
• Scrappy
• Truculent

Usage of Belligerent In Daily Life

• After your team loses, staying away from those hockey followers is advised, as they often behave belligerently.
• Finally, a few contacts noticed a rise in belligerent clients.
• Her alcohol level in the blood was extremely elevated, so she acted belligerently toward police officers.
• He got extremely belligerent on the battlefield and was supportive of Obama.
• The speaker’s voice and attitude were much more belligerent than his statement.

Final Words

So, now you know “what does belligerent mean in British Slang” exactly? Understanding this term will give you an idea of what an angry and ready-to-fight person is called in British slang. Next time you see a quarrelsome and annoying person, you can use this British vocabulary, depending on the situation. 

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