combative

Combative is an adjective describing an eagerness to fight or a readiness to engage in confrontation. It can apply to people, attitudes, or situations that are hostile or predisposed to conflict. The term is often used both literally, to describe physical fighting, and figuratively, to denote a confrontational approach in debate, politics, or diplomacy.

Etymology: Combative derives from the noun combat, via the Old French adjective combattif, with the -ive suffix forming an English adjective. The sense has broadened to include nonphysical forms of confrontation.

Usage: In medical and behavioral contexts, combative behavior describes aggression, agitation, or resistance to care, and may require de-escalation and safety planning. In sports, martial arts, and law enforcement, it describes a participant prepared for physical engagement. In rhetoric and politics, combative language denotes a forceful, truculent style, sometimes seen as necessary or as excessive, depending on the audience and context.

Related terms include combative stance, combativeness (the noun form), belligerent, aggressive, and hostile. Antonyms include peaceful, conciliatory, nonconfrontational, and passive. See also aggression, conflict, and confrontation.