Warlike

/ˈwɔːrlaɪk/ adjective

Definition

Eager or inclined toward fighting and violence; showing a hostile or aggressive attitude.

Etymology

Compound of 'war' (from Old French 'werre') and 'like' (Old English 'gelīc', meaning resembling). Combined in Old English to describe something resembling or characteristic of war.

Kelly Says

Historians noticed that societies with more 'warlike' cultures didn't always win wars—instead, organized, patient societies often defeated aggressive ones, suggesting that being labeled warlike might actually be a disadvantage.

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