combatiente
“combatiente” means “combatant” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
combatant
Also: fighter, soldier
📝 In Action
Los combatientes regresaron a sus hogares después del acuerdo.
B1The combatants returned to their homes after the agreement.
La ley protege tanto a civiles como a combatientes heridos.
B2The law protects both civilians and wounded fighters.
Mi abuelo fue un combatiente en la resistencia durante la guerra.
C1My grandfather was a fighter in the resistance during the war.
fighting
Also: combative
📝 In Action
Las facciones combatientes firmaron un cese al fuego.
C1The fighting factions signed a cease-fire.
Tiene un espíritu combatiente que no se rinde ante los problemas.
B2He has a combative spirit that doesn't give up in the face of problems.
El sindicato mantuvo una postura combatiente durante las negociaciones.
C1The union maintained a combative stance during the negotiations.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: combatiente
Question 1 of 3
Which is the correct way to say 'The female fighter'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the Spanish verb 'combatir' (to fight), which comes from the Latin 'combattuere', combining 'com-' (together) and 'battuere' (to beat or strike).
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'combatiente' only for soldiers?
Technically, it refers to anyone taking part in a combat, but it can also be used figuratively to describe someone with a very determined or 'fighting' personality.
What is an 'ex-combatiente'?
It is the Spanish word for a 'veteran'—someone who used to be a fighter in a war but is no longer active.
Can I use 'combatiente' to describe a boxer?
While it's not wrong, it's much more common to use 'boxeador' or 'luchador' for sports. 'Combatiente' has a more serious, military feel.