PUGNACIOUS

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does pugnacious mean? 

• PUGNACIOUS (adjective)
  The adjective PUGNACIOUS has 2 senses:

1. tough and callous by virtue of experience

2. ready and able to resort to force or violence

  Familiarity information: PUGNACIOUS used as an adjective is rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• PUGNACIOUS (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Tough and callous by virtue of experience

Synonyms:

hard-bitten; hard-boiled; pugnacious

Similar:

tough (not given to gentleness or sentimentality)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Ready and able to resort to force or violence

Synonyms:

pugnacious; rough

Context example:

they were rough and determined fighting men

Similar:

aggressive (having or showing determination and energetic pursuit of your ends)

Derivation:

pugnacity (a natural disposition to be hostile)

 Context examples 

As he made the demand he spat out a mouthful of blood and teeth and shoved his pugnacious face close to Oofty-Oofty.

(The Sea-Wolf, by Jack London)