nonlethal

adjective

non·​le·​thal ˌnän-ˈlē-thəl How to pronounce nonlethal (audio)
Synonyms of nonlethalnext
: not lethal : not capable of causing death
a nonlethal gas
nonlethal weapons
a nonlethal dose of venom

Examples of nonlethal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Marsies who resist arrest are doing so without batons, skull-protecting helmets, and guns containing, technically, nonlethal rounds. Sophie Brookover, Vulture, 24 Apr. 2026 The directive aimed to encourage nonlethal tactics, according to an El Dorado County presentation. Corey Schmidt, Sacbee.com, 24 Apr. 2026 Yet both Piker and Tolentino move from discussing nonlethal crimes of nuisance and destruction to making excuses for murder. Thomas Chatterton Williams, The Atlantic, 23 Apr. 2026 Senate Bill 1135 would establish the Wildlife Coexistence Program, providing public education, technical assistance, and nonlethal deterrents such as barriers and noise machines. Kevinisha Walker, Los Angeles Times, 20 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for nonlethal

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nonlethal was in 1625

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Cite this Entry

“Nonlethal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonlethal. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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